Russia has proposed that India use its existing infrastructure for the production of Su-30MKI fighter jets to manufacture the Su-57E, a fifth-generation stealth aircraft. The offer was made by Rosoboronexport, Russia’s state arms exporter, in February 2025, ahead of the Aero India 2025 exhibition. If accepted, the production of the Su-57E could begin shortly at facilities currently assembling the Su-30MKI.
India has around 260 Su-30MKI fighters, with over 220 built locally by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under a license agreement. In December 2024, HAL signed a deal worth USD 1.5 billion to procure 12 additional Su-30MKI aircraft, and plans are also in place to upgrade the existing fleet. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the modernization of the Su-30MKI jets in November 2023.
The Su-57E is a supersonic, twin-engine fighter with capabilities for air, ground, and naval targets. Russia’s proposal includes the possibility of upgrading the Su-30MKI fleet and collaborating with Indian industries to enhance capabilities, such as integrating new air-launched weapons. Russia is also offering assistance in developing India’s own fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program.
In addition to Russia’s offer, the United States has proposed the F-35 Lightning II fighter to India, although the Indian government has not indicated a preference for either aircraft. India’s Air Force is facing a capability gap, with neighboring China deploying two fifth-generation aircraft, the J-20 and J-35A. The Indian Air Force is also contending with a reduced squadron strength as it awaits the delayed Tejas fighter and grapples with aging aircraft.
While some analysts view the Su-57E as a potential interim solution to bolster India’s air combat capabilities, others express concerns about its impact on India’s own fighter development programs and its relationship with the United States.