Despite previous rejections, russians are continuing their attempts to sell S-500 air defense systems and Su-57 fighter jets to India. They are trying to make the offer more attractive by localizing production and pointing to existing agreements on the S-400.
The Economic Times reported that the possible supply of S-500s and Su-57s was discussed by russian dictator Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.
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It is noted that the issue has emerged following the Indian Ministry of Defense's approval of the purchase of five additional S-400 air defense systems for approximately $5.3 billion. russians have already submitted their proposal, which includes potential localization.
One reason the Indians, who were previously unwilling to purchase the S-500, might change their minds is the potential localization of production. The Su-57 could also help fill a gap in the Indian Air Force's capabilities. At the same time, such deals raise concerns in the U.S., potentially making India more hesitant to purchase such weapons from russia.
From Defense Express we would like to note that this is a good example of how russians are trying to retain one of their largest arms buyers. A large order from India would provide the russian defense industry with significant additional funding, allowing it to ramp up production or simply keep its plants running.
At the same time, India has already stated that it does not plan to purchase additional fighter jets from Sukhoi, focusing instead on developing its own fifth-generation fighter, the AMCA. However, the AMCA will not be ready anytime soon, and given the possibility of delays in its development, the russian Su-57 remains an option, albeit a questionable one in light of the sanctions.
As for the S-500, India had no plans to procure them as of the end of 2025 either. The purchase of additional S-400s—which India had seen in action during the 2025 hostilities with Pakistan—became a much more attractive option.
Currently, the Indian military is awaiting the final S-400 battery out of the five units ordered back in 2018. However, questions remain as to whether russia will be able to deliver additional systems, given its ongoing losses in the war against Ukraine.
This is where localizing production could help, as it could reduce India's dependence on supplies from russia. Overall, it is worth noting that, for now, the S-500 and Su-57 remain merely a russian proposal that India has not yet accepted.
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