A significant development in defense ties between Russia and India has emerged with Moscow’s offer of two advanced stealth fighter jets: the Su-57 and the Su-75. The Su-75 is currently in its advanced development stages. This diplomatic overture, timed before President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit, highlights Russia’s strategic intent to deepen defense cooperation. India’s Air Force, facing a deficit in modern combat aircraft, is reportedly evaluating these Russian jets to enhance its capabilities.
The Su-75 is positioned by Russia as the most affordable fifth-generation stealth fighter globally, with an anticipated price range of $30 to $35 million. This single-engine jet is designed for high performance, featuring a top speed of Mach 1.8, an operational range of 3,000 km, and a maximum altitude of 54,000 feet. A substantial payload of 7.4 tons can be carried internally, a crucial element for preserving its stealth characteristics in aerial engagements.
A key element of the Russian proposal is the establishment of local production facilities in India. This would empower Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to not only assemble these state-of-the-art fighters but also to develop them as export models for lucrative markets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Russia has also pledged to share cutting-edge technologies, including sophisticated stealth design methodologies, AI-powered cockpit systems, advanced sensor fusion techniques, and next-generation network-centric warfare solutions – capabilities that Western defense partners are often reluctant to transfer.
HAL has indicated its willingness to engage in joint development projects with Russia, though the specific aircraft for this collaboration is yet to be determined. Indian defense officials have expressed confidence in working with Russia, citing their extensive experience with Russian aircraft, including the assembly of the MiG-21, MiG-27, and Su-30MKI. Such a joint venture could potentially grant India full intellectual property rights, significantly boosting its self-reliance and insulating it from external geopolitical pressures and import restrictions.
Industry experts suggest that the local manufacturing of the Su-75 could mirror the economic successes of the BrahMos missile program, potentially generating considerable export revenue while complementing rather than competing with indigenous projects like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The Su-75’s design as a lightweight, single-engine stealth fighter complements the heavier, twin-engine AMCA, serving distinct combat roles. Local production offers a cost-effective path to fulfill India’s immediate aerial combat needs.
Russia claims the Su-75 will offer unparalleled value for a fifth-generation fighter, featuring advanced systems such as an AL-41F1S engine capable of supercruise, an advanced cockpit and avionics suite derived from the Su-57, and a fully internal weapons bay. Its stealth performance is said to remain uncompromised, even with its significant payload capacity. The Su-57, on the other hand, is a battle-tested, fifth-generation multirole fighter designed for versatile air-to-air and air-to-ground operations. Its stealth capabilities are a result of its design, radar-absorbent materials, and internal weapon bays, enabling elusive operations.
Analysts highlight the Su-57’s advanced capabilities in Suppression and Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD/DEAD) missions, potentially exceeding those of competitors like the F-35 or J-20. This ability to degrade enemy air defense networks makes the Su-57 a strategically significant asset for the Indian Air Force. With the IAF facing an urgent requirement to bolster its fighter fleet, the decision between these Russian stealth platforms and continued acquisition of Western aircraft, such as additional Rafale jets, is a critical strategic choice for India’s defense future.