Su-57 in India? Moscow Exploring Cost of Make-in-India, Technology Transfer of Fifth-Gen Fighter Jet

Russia is conducting studies to evaluate the costs and requirements of manufacturing its advanced Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter in India. New Delhi has indicated a need for at least two to three squadrons, with both the Su-57 and the American F-35 under consideration as contenders for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Rosoboronexport’s Offer

At the Aero India 2025 exhibition, Rosoboronexport, Moscow’s state arms exporter, pitched a strong proposal: a full transfer of technology and local manufacturing in India. Officials stressed that domestic production would shield supply chains and maintenance support from potential Western sanctions. They added that if India approves, the first Su-57 units could enter production in the country as early as this year.

HAL as a Key Hub

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which already assembles Su-30MKI fighters at its Nashik plant, is the most likely production partner. Russian officials said that adapting the existing Su-30 production line for Su-57 manufacturing would require less than 30% retooling, lowering costs and ensuring quicker rollout. Other Indian facilities producing Russian-origin equipment may also be tapped to support the project.

Pricing and Advantage Over Rivals

Russia has claimed that a Made-in-India Su-57 would cost less than the F-35A, which is priced at around $80 million per aircraft. While no final figures have been disclosed, this pricing advantage, coupled with local assembly, could make the Russian offer financially attractive.

A Revival of Old Ties

India had previously partnered with Russia on the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) programme, but withdrew nearly a decade ago due to disputes over cost, performance, and technology transfer. With global geopolitics shifting, experts believe the idea of reviving advanced fighter cooperation with Moscow is once again under serious consideration.

India’s Air Power Needs

The Indian Air Force currently operates 31 combat squadrons, well short of its sanctioned strength of 42, and faces a pressing need to expand capacity. While India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme has been cleared and is expected to see its first flight by 2028 with induction by 2035, the Su-57 could serve as a critical interim capability booster.

Strategic and Industrial Implications

Local Su-57 production would carry broader implications than just aircraft numbers:

• Secure supply chains insulated from geopolitical disruptions.

• Reduced long-term sustainment costs thanks to local spares.

• Expansion of the domestic defence industrial base under the Make-in-India vision.

• A deeper strategic alignment with Russia at a time of global power rebalancing.

Balancing With the F-35

The United States continues to pitch the F-35, but Washington’s approach is coupled with ongoing trade and tariff issues. Russia, in contrast, offers greater technology transfer and localized manufacturing. However, reliance on Russian systems could expose India to risks tied to Moscow’s strained relations with the West.

The Su-57 proposal gives India an immediate path to acquiring a cutting-edge fifth-generation fighter while strengthening its defence industry. Yet, with both Washington and Moscow vying for influence, New Delhi’s decision will hinge not only on price and performance but also on long-term strategic independence.