India Explores Joint Su-57 Fighter Purchase and Local Production with Russia

India is reconsidering the acquisition of Russia's fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jets, with proposals to purchase two factory-built squadrons and locally assemble an additional three to five squadrons at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Russia has offered extensive technology transfer, including engines and source code, aiming to meet all of India's requirements and expand cooperation beyond previous joint projects like the Su-30MKI. This renewed interest comes amid delays in India's indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program and operational challenges such as the aging MiG-21 fleet and engine supply issues for the Tejas jets. The deal aligns with India's strategic goal to maintain aerial superiority against regional threats, especially with China's growing stealth capabilities and Pakistan's fighter acquisitions. Alongside this, India is finalizing a major contract with HAL for 97 Tejas Mark-1A jets, reinforcing its domestic defense manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. While the Su-57 does not fully match some Western fifth-generation fighters, it offers stealth, high payload capacity, and compatibility with hypersonic weapons, making it a crucial option as India balances indigenous development with immediate operational needs.