For the first time ever, India’s skies will play host to one of the most advanced stealth fighter jets in the world’s Russia’s Su-57. Scheduled to appear at Aero India 2025, this debut marks a significant milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its air force. The Su-57, a fifth-generation fighter developed by Sukhoi, promises to bring cutting-edge technology to India’s defense landscape, offering a glimpse into what the future of air combat could look like.
The appearance of the Su-57 at Aero India will have a far-reaching impact on India’s defense procurement decisions, especially as the Indian Air Force (IAF) evaluates its next-generation fighter options. Interestingly, while the Su-57 takes center stage, the American F-35, one of the world’s most talked-about stealth fighters, will be notably absent, raising questions about shifting defense dynamics in the region.
Su-57
The Su-57 is Russia’s most advanced fighter jet, designed for both air superiority and precision ground strikes. Featuring stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and superior maneuverability, the Su-57 has been touted as one of the few fifth-generation jets in service globally. This marks its first appearance at an Indian defense event, making it a highly anticipated moment at Aero India 2025.
On Wednesday (Jan 29, 2025) the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, confirmed the Su-57’s participation, sharing images and videos of the jet, which they described as `beautiful and mighty.’
The Su-57’s `debut is not only a showcase of Russian technology but also an indication of the growing defense collaboration between Russia and India. The two countries have a long history of military partnerships, with joint production of aircraft like the Su-30MKI.
The Absence of the F-35
In stark contrast to the Russian presence, the American F-35 stealth fighter will not participate in Aero India 2025. The US Air Force and Lockheed Martin have both confirmed the F-35’s withdrawal from the event, citing scheduling changes. This is particularly significant as the F-35 was a highlight at Aero India 2023, where it showcased its capabilities in a live demo.
India has been in the process of evaluating its fighter options for the IAF’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) project, which aims to procure 114 advanced fighter jets. While the F-35 had been a potential contender for this project, the US decision to withdraw the F-35 from the event suggests that India may look to other alternatives, such as the Su-57 or other fighters like the F-21 from Lockheed Martin.
The Su-57’s appearance at Aero India offers India a compelling option in its search for a next-generation stealth fighter. The IAF is under increasing pressure to modernize its fleet, particularly given the rising threat from neighboring China, which has been rapidly advancing its own air capabilities, including the J-20 and J-35 stealth jets.
With the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) still a decade away from entering service, India faces the prospect of relying on foreign-made stealth fighters for the foreseeable future. The Su-57 could be a critical piece of this puzzle, offering India a chance to procure a fifth-generation fighter sooner rather than later, particularly with Russia offering potential joint manufacturing options under the `Make in India’ framework.
The decision India makes on whether to pursue the Su-57, F-21, or continue with its indigenous development of the AMCA will have long-term implications for its strategic alliances and military posture in the Indo-Pacific region.