It seems russia hasn’t given up on its efforts to sell Su-57 and Su-35S fighters to India. This time, moscow is offering not only the aircraft themselves but also extensive localization with technology transfers, as well as accelerated delivery to meet New Delhi’s immediate defense needs.
According to Defence Blog, russia has proposed launching Su-57E production at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Nashik, where over 220 Su-30MKIs were previously assembled under license. The offer includes access to source codes and 40–60% localization—an unusually generous proposition.
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Such an agreement would allow for the integration of Indian systems and weapons, such as Astra air-to-air missiles, Rudram anti-radiation missiles, and indigenous AESA radar systems like Virupaksha. Rostec claims these modifications, along with technology transfers covering engines, stealth systems, and avionics, align with India’s “Make in India” initiative and could support the development of its own fifth-generation fighter jet.
Regarding delivery pace, russia promises the first 20–30 Su-57Es within 3–4 years—a relatively fast timeline by global standards. This suggests moscow might use existing production capacity for exports, given that there are currently no competing foreign orders aside from domestic commitments.
A full order of 70–100 aircraft is projected to be completed by the early 2030s. While the offer appears attractive with local production involved, there are numerous concerns about the feasibility of these promises.
India had previously exited the Su-57 development program in 2018, citing that the aircraft didn’t meet fifth-generation standards. Still, russia managed to showcase the Su-57E at Aero India in February 2025.
Sanctions also pose a major challenge, potentially disrupting parts supply and maintenance. In fact, in 2018, up to 40% of India’s Su-30MKI fleet was reportedly non-operational due to parts shortages.
Russia’s pitch may hinge on India’s interest in the next-generation “AL-51F1” engines currently under development for the Su-57. Rostec presents them as a potential upgrade path for India’s existing Su-30 fleet. However, only mockups and limited prototype testing have been shown so far, and the engine’s completion has now been delayed to 2027.
As for the Su-35S, russia is offering them for India’s MRFA tender, which calls for 117 multirole fighters. Moscow claims it can deliver 36–40 jets within 2–3 years.
These figures raise eyebrows since most expert estimates put Su-35S production at just 6–12 aircraft per year for russia’s own military. This either indicates underused extra capacity—or another case of exaggerated promises. Likely, it’s both.
Yet, the offer faces stiff competition. India is actively procuring Rafale fighters, with local assembly as part of the deal. The Rafales generally outperform the Su-35S and can carry long-range Meteor air-to-air missiles.
One counterpoint is the reportedly poor performance of French fighters in engagements with Pakistan, which might make russian jets appear more appealing. Even so, prospects for russian success in India remain uncertain, outside of its existing deal with Algeria.
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