Su-57E Upgrade to Feature Indian Systems in Russia’s New Offer to IAF

Russia has put forward a fresh and enhanced proposal to India for its fifth-generation Su-57E stealth fighter jet, offering a uniquely customized version tailored to Indian operational and technological priorities. The upgraded offer includes a new ‘Super-30’ configuration—a nod to the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) own Sukhoi-30MKI modernization program—and promises deep integration with indigenous systems, a phased production roadmap, and the possibility of fast-tracked induction.

The heart of this proposal lies in merging India’s current upgrades for the Su-30MKI fleet with the cutting-edge capabilities of the Su-57E. This includes incorporating Indian-developed systems like a Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and a next-generation mission computer. Both are key components being readied for the Super-30 program and could now find their place inside the Su-57E airframe as well.

By doing this, the Russian side is not just offering a fifth-generation fighter jet—it is offering an ecosystem that connects directly with India’s current fleet. With shared electronics and mission systems, the IAF can easily equip the Su-57E with indigenous weapons such as the Astra air-to-air missile and future smart munitions. This supports the broader national goal of strengthening India's defence self-reliance under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.

Rostec, Russia’s defence conglomerate, has also proposed that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Nashik take the lead in local manufacturing. HAL’s Nashik facility has already produced over 220 Su-30MKI jets under license and has the necessary infrastructure to support such a complex production line. According to internal assessments, it would take approximately three to four years to fully localize the Su-57E production in India—including integration of domestic subsystems.

To avoid operational delays during this ramp-up period, Russia is also offering to supply an initial batch of 20 to 30 Su-57E fighters off the shelf. This would immediately address the IAF’s shrinking squadron strength, particularly in the wake of MiG-21 retirements and slow progress in the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program.

India’s AMCA, envisioned as a fully indigenous fifth-generation fighter, is still years away from production readiness. Its first flight is expected around 2029, with production likely only after 2034. This creates a pressing need for an interim capability—especially as China advances with its J-20 stealth fighters and Pakistan explores induction of the J-31 by 2029.

The Su-57E, while sometimes critiqued for having less stealth than its American counterpart, the F-35, still brings powerful advantages. It boasts excellent supermaneuverability, large internal and external payload capacity, and future readiness for hypersonic missiles. It also promises reduced radar cross-section and electronic warfare capability, making it a versatile platform for multiple mission profiles.

Nonetheless, the offer does not come without complications. The final version of the Su-57’s new-generation 'Izdeliye 30' engine is still in testing and not yet fully operational. Questions about after-sales service, spare parts availability, and long-term maintenance—issues that have occasionally troubled the Su-30MKI fleet—must be addressed clearly in any future agreement.

There is also the geopolitical angle. Any substantial arms deal with Russia could trigger concerns in Washington under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which penalizes countries engaging in major defence transactions with Russia.

Meanwhile, in a separate development that hints at shifting global defence dynamics, Israel's Defense Minister posted a cryptic but pointed tweet earlier today, stating, “New alliances are forming. Shared capabilities, shared concerns. Israel stands ready to strengthen trusted partnerships.” Though the tweet made no direct reference to India or the Su-57 deal, defence watchers speculate it could be a subtle nudge as Israel explores deeper military and technological collaborations across Asia.

As India evaluates the Russian proposal, the offer of a Su-57E tailored to Indian requirements with future-proof capabilities, quick induction, and alignment with indigenous systems might be too strategically valuable to ignore. But the final decision will likely rest on how well Russia can meet India’s expectations for technology transfer, reliability, and long-term operational sustainability—while navigating the turbulent waters of international politics.