Russia has extended a important offer to India regarding advanced fighter jet production, highlighting a new phase of defence collaboration between the two nations. Russia’s state-owned defence export company, Rosoboronexport, has proposed the localized production of the Su-57E, the export version of Russia’s  fifth-generation fighter jet. The offer also includes valuable technological assistance for indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project.

At an event on the sidelines of the ongoing Aero India 2025, a spokesperson from Rosoboronexport mentioned that the Russian side, in collaboration with United Aircraft Corporation, was ready to initiate the localization of the Su-57E at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) facilities as early as 2025. “We propose to localize the production of the fifth-generation fighter aircraft in India, and the production at HAL can begin as soon as this year,” the spokesperson stated.

In addition to the Su-57E offer, Russia also put forward a proposal to aid AMCA program. This offer includes technology transfers related to key components such as engines, Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars, optics, artificial intelligence, software, and advanced weapons. The aim is to enhance the indigenous development of the AMCA, India’s ambitious national fighter jet project.

“By manufacturing these crucial technologies in India, we eliminate the risk of future disruptions in supply chains, such as those caused by sanctions,” the Rosoboronexport spokesperson explained.

He further emphasized that this partnership would allow India to strengthen its self-reliance in defence technology, offering long-term benefits for the country’s combat capabilities, including the ability to upgrade software and systems independently.

The Russian offer aligns with India’s growing desire to reduce reliance on foreign defence imports and build more self-sufficient defence capabilities. The spokesperson added, “This isn’t just about fifth-generation aircraft; it’s about empowering India with technological independence, ensuring that India will never face delays in receiving critical components for its aircraft.”

India has long been a major customer of Russian defence equipment, with the country accounting for over 66% of country’s arms imports between 2000 and 2020. This long-standing partnership has positioned Russia as a key player in India’s defence strategy.

This offer comes at a significant time, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the United States, strengthening India’s growing defence and strategic ties with the West. Simultaneously, Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India soon, signalling a continued commitment to deepening the Indo-Russian defence relationship.

However, as India continues to push for more indigenous production, the offer of technology transfer and localized production from Russia comes at a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is facing challenges with its existing fighter fleet. The IAF, currently operating at only 31 squadrons compared to the sanctioned 42, has been vocal about its frustrations with delays in deliveries of aircraft such as the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1.

The Su-57E proposal, coupled with the technological contributions for the AMCA, marks a new chapter in Indo-Russian defence cooperation, with the potential to significantly bolster India’s defence capabilities.