Russia wants to manufacture Su-57 stealth fighter jet in India

^{Su-57 fighter aircraft
Photo: Gazeta.ru}
Russia has offered to manufacture its fifth-generation Su-57 stealth fighter aircraft in India, Russian and Indian officials said, Al Arabiya reported.

This is the result of Moscow's efforts to strengthen defense ties with New Delhi.

"For decades, Russia has been the main supplier of weapons to India, the world's largest arms importer, and its fighter jets are part of the Indian military fleet. However, in recent years, Moscow's export opportunities have been limited due to the war in Ukraine, forcing New Delhi to turn its attention to the West," Al Arabiya reported.

A representative of Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport told reporters that if the Indian government accepts the offer, the fighter jet could be produced as early as this year.

India's Defense Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

^{Photo: RIA Novosti}
A Russian industry source and an Indian official said that Russia had made an informal offer during talks with the Indian government and officials from state-owned aircraft manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.

"The move comes as the Indian Air Force seeks to strengthen its fighter squadrons, which have been reduced from a target of 42 to 31, while rival China is expanding its air force," the report said.

According to a Rosoboronexport representative, the full transfer of technology in India will ensure that the production and maintenance of the aircraft will not be affected by Western sanctions against Russia.

He said the aircraft could be produced by upgrading India's Su-30 production line. The Indian Air Force currently has 260 of this type in its fleet.

The Su-57, touted as a fifth-generation Russian fighter capable of competing with its American counterpart, has been plagued by delays in development since 2019. According to the manufacturer, serial production of the aircraft will begin in 2022. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”