India's Path to Rapidly Producing Su-57 Jets Using Existing Su-30MKI Facilities : Rosoboronexport
India's ambition to modernize its air force has received a significant boost with Russia's proposal to domestically produce the advanced Su-57 stealth fighter jets. Rosoboronexport, Russia's state arms exporter, has suggested that India's current production lines, which have successfully assembled over 220 Sukhoi Su-30MKI aircraft in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), can be swiftly adapted to manufacture the Su-57E, the export variant of Russia's fifth-generation fighter.
This proposal aligns with India's goal to enhance its air defense capabilities, especially as the Indian Air Force (IAF) aims to increase its active fighter squadrons from 31 to 42 by 2035. The integration of fifth-generation jets like the Su-57E would mark a significant advancement, considering neighboring China's possession of similar capabilities.
One of the notable advantages of this collaboration is the potential insulation from Western sanctions. By producing the Su-57E domestically, India could mitigate risks associated with geopolitical tensions, ensuring a steady and autonomous defense supply chain.
The Su-57E boasts advanced features such as stealth technology, supercruise capability, and integrated avionics, positioning it as a formidable asset in modern aerial warfare. Its design emphasizes reduced radar visibility and enhanced maneuverability, addressing the evolving demands of contemporary combat scenarios.
However, Russia is not the sole contender in this arena. During a recent visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump proposed the American-made F-35 as an alternative. The F-35, known for its advanced stealth and combat systems, is typically reserved for the United States' closest allies. This development underscores the strategic importance both nations place on strengthening defense ties with India.
At the Aero India event held last month in Bengaluru, both the Su-57 and F-35 were prominently showcased, symbolizing the competitive landscape of fifth-generation fighter jets. Rosoboronexport reiterated its offer to partner with India in further developing the Su-57E and localizing its production, emphasizing the potential for technology transfer and joint development.
India's decision in this regard will significantly influence its defense posture in the coming decades. The choice between the Su-57E and alternatives like the F-35 involves considerations of cost, technology transfer, geopolitical alliances, and operational requirements. Adapting existing Su-30MKI production lines for the Su-57E could offer a cost-effective and expedient pathway to bolstering the IAF's capabilities.
In conclusion, leveraging existing infrastructure to produce the Su-57E domestically presents a strategic opportunity for India to enhance its air force capabilities rapidly. This approach aligns with the nation's broader objectives of self-reliance and modernization in defense, ensuring readiness to meet evolving security challenges.
