The Indian Air Force is considering a major upgrade in its air power, with plans to acquire the Russian-made Su-57E stealth fighter jet. Discussions are ongoing not only for the procurement of the aircraft but also for its local assembly and joint production within India.
India currently does not possess a fifth-generation stealth fighter. The Su-57E could address this gap. A key advantage of the Su-57E is its ability to carry the 3M22 Zircon hypersonic missile. The Zircon missile travels at speeds exceeding Mach 9, making it nearly invulnerable to existing air defense systems. The aircraft is also capable of carrying the BrahMos missile, a joint Indian-Russian development.
This potential acquisition would provide India with a significant advantage over both China and Pakistan in terms of air power. The Zircon-equipped Su-57E would provide a potent strike capability against both ground and maritime targets.
The deal could offer substantial benefits for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Russia has proposed complete technology transfer, joint production, and the integration of Indian systems.
* HAL will gain access to fifth-generation stealth technology and supercruise capabilities.
* The production of the SU-57E is likely to be undertaken at the HAL facility in Nashik, which currently produces the SU-30MKI.
* Reports indicate that a portion of the aircraft will be directly supplied by Russia, while the remainder will be assembled by HAL, potentially helping the country overcome a squadron shortfall.
* The project will generate employment opportunities and could allow India to export the aircraft in the future.
Local production of the Su-57E would be more cost-effective compared to acquiring Western aircraft like the F-35. Moreover, HAL would be responsible for the maintenance and upgrades of the aircraft, ensuring long-term revenue generation.
Despite the advantages, there are some challenges. Potential hurdles include the risk of U.S. sanctions, the maturity of the aircraft’s engine, and issues related to the earlier FGFA project. However, Russia’s cooperation and HAL’s existing infrastructure are expected to mitigate these challenges.
If India proceeds with this deal, it would join a select group of nations possessing air-launched hypersonic weapon systems, boosting its military strength and strengthening its strategic standing in the Indo-Pacific region.