Russia Offers Su-57 Fighter Jets to India with Joint Production Option

Russia has officially offered its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets to India, including options for joint production and the development of an indigenous variant, according to Rosoboronexport.

Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheev said that India is being offered not only Su-57E deliveries but also assistance in producing the fighter domestically. The Su-57, which has been tested in Ukraine against Western air defense systems such as the Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T, is expected to be displayed at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, where it will participate in flying demonstrations.

"Rosoboronexport offers comprehensive development of cooperation on the Su-57E project. Our proposals include the supply of finished aircraft, the organization of their joint production in India, and assistance in the development of an Indian fifth-generation fighter," said  Alexander Mikheev. 

Visitors to the Russian pavilion at the airshow will also have the opportunity to experience the aircraft through a VR flight simulator. The Su-57, known for its aerobatic performances at events such as Moscow’s MAKS air show and Air Show China in Zhuhai, will be celebrating 15 years since its first flight in January 2010.

The aircraft features stealth capabilities, an advanced AESA radar system, and the ability to launch low-observable cruise missiles from internal weapon bays. The Su-57 is expected to receive a new AL-51F1 engine, designed for sustained supersonic flight without afterburners, enhancing its combat effectiveness.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Air Force has canceled demonstration flights of the F-35 and upgraded F-16 at Aero India 2025. The F-35, which debuted at the event in 2023, was expected to be a major attraction, but its absence may shift attention toward the Su-57.