Sukhoi Su-57: Russia’s “Golden Deal” to India – Will IAF Buy It?
Introduction
India’s air defense strategy is at a critical juncture, with stealth fighter threats growing from China and Pakistan. The recent arrival of Russia’s Su-57E stealth fighter at Aero India 2025 signals a renewed push by Moscow to sell its cutting-edge fighter to New Delhi.
With a history of defense collaboration, India and Russia once planned to co-develop the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) but abandoned the project in 2018. Now, with improved capabilities and an attractive joint production offer, will India reconsider the Su-57E?
Su-57E at Aero India 2025 – Russia’s Renewed Pitch
On February 6, 2025, Russia’s Su-57E landed at Yelahanka Air Base in Bengaluru for Aero India 2025, making India the second country (after China) where Russia is showcasing the aircraft.
Key highlights:
- Honored Test Pilot Sergey Bogdan will perform demonstration flights.
- Visitors can experience the Su-57E VR simulator.
- Russia’s Rosoboronexport is actively engaging with Indian defense officials.
Why India Needs a Stealth Fighter Now More Than Ever
India’s adversaries are rapidly strengthening their stealth capabilities:
- China’s PLAAF already fields over 200 Chengdu J-20 stealth fighters and plans to deploy 300+ by 2030.
- Pakistan Air Force (PAF) aims to acquire Shenyang J-31 stealth fighters from China.
- Pakistan and Turkey are jointly working on the KAAN stealth fighter.
With increasing stealth threats on both northern and western borders, the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces a severe capability gap in next-generation air combat.
A Look Back – India’s FGFA Program with Russia
India and Russia signed a preliminary agreement in 2007 to jointly develop the FGFA based on Russia’s Su-57 (then T-50 prototype).
Why India Suspended FGFA in 2018
- Disagreements over cost-sharing and technology transfer.
- IAF concerns about the aircraft’s stealth capabilities.
- Reports that the Su-57 lacked all-aspect stealth and supercruise capability with its older AL-41F1 engine.
Despite backing out, India left the door open for future acquisition, stating it might revisit the Su-57E if required.
Su-57’s Key Upgrades Since India’s Withdrawal
Since 2018, Russia has made significant improvements to the Su-57, addressing many concerns raised by India.
1. New AL-51 Stage-2 Engines
- Supercruise at Mach 1.6-2.0 (without afterburners).
- 11-ton dry thrust (compared to 9 tons in AL-41F1).
- Reduced infrared (IR) signature for better stealth.
2. Enhanced Stealth Capabilities
- Serrated exhaust nozzle reduces radar & IR visibility.
- Internal weapons bay integration minimizes radar cross-section (RCS).
3. Combat-Proven Performance
- Tested in Syria for combat effectiveness.
- Used in Ukraine for electronic warfare and strike missions.
4. Development of a Twin-Seat Variant
- Beneficial for pilot training and AI-assisted operations.
- Could be leveraged for IAF’s future UAV & “Loyal Wingman” programs.
The “Golden Deal” – Russia’s Proposal to India
Russia is offering a lucrative package to India to bridge its stealth fighter gap:
- Direct Acquisition – Ready-to-fly Su-57E units for IAF.
- Joint Production in India – Boosts “Make in India” & reduces costs.
- Technology Transfer – Could support India’s AMCA stealth fighter project.
How Su-57E Compares to Global Stealth Fighters
| Feature | Su-57E | F-35 (USA) | J-20 (China) | J-31 (China) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supercruise | Yes (Mach 1.6-2.0) | No | No | No |
| Radar Cross Section (RCS) | Low (0.1-0.3m²) | Very Low (0.005m²) | Low (0.1-0.5m²) | Low |
| Maneuverability | High (3D thrust vectoring) | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Weapon Bays | Internal + External | Internal Only | Internal + External | Internal |
- F-35 is stealthier but lacks maneuverability and supercruise.
- Su-57 has better maneuverability and speed but a slightly larger radar cross-section.
- J-20 & J-31 lag in supercruise and agility, making them less lethal in dogfights.
Challenges & Concerns for India
Despite its advantages, acquiring the Su-57E poses challenges:
- High Costs – Estimated $100-120 million per unit.
- Maintenance & Spares – India already faces delays in Russian spares for Su-30MKI.
- Compatibility Issues – Integration with India’s existing fleet and future AMCA.
India’s Alternatives: Should It Wait for AMCA?
India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is expected to fly by 2032-2035. However, delays are likely due to:
- Lack of 5th-gen engine technology.
- Need for advanced radar and stealth coatings.
Interim Solution?
A limited Su-57E acquisition could provide IAF an operational edge until AMCA is fully ready.
Geopolitical Implications of Buying the Su-57E
- Strengthens India-Russia ties amid Western arms supply limitations.
- Possible U.S. Sanctions under CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act).
- China’s Reaction – May push Beijing to further expand its J-20 fleet.
Conclusion: Should India “Bite the Bullet” on Su-57E?
India faces a critical decision in its air combat strategy.
- Pros: The Su-57E is an advanced, battle-proven fighter with joint production potential.
- Cons: High costs, logistical concerns, and possible U.S. backlash.
With stealth threats from China and Pakistan rising rapidly, India must act decisively to maintain air superiority.
