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Hans India
12 hours ago
- Business
- Hans India
Pakistan To Receive 40 Chinese Stealth Fighters While India's Indigenous Program Faces Decade-Long Wait
China is set to deliver 40 Shenyang J-35 fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft to Pakistan, marking a significant shift in South Asian air power dynamics. This development places Pakistan among the select nations operating advanced stealth technology, while India's Air Force continues to operate without any stealth fighters in its current inventory. The delivery timeline suggests Pakistan could have these advanced aircraft operational by December 2025, according to defense analysts. Meanwhile, India's indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program remains at least a decade away from fielding operational units, with official projections indicating full induction around 2035. According to sources, senior Indian Air Force veterans have confirmed that Pakistani pilots have already been training in China for over six months on these aircraft systems. Group Captain Ajay Ahlawat, a retired IAF fighter pilot and defense analyst, noted that the pilot training program had been ongoing well before the official delivery announcement, indicating China's methodical approach to this technology transfer. The aircraft Pakistan will receive is reportedly the FC-31, an export variant of China's J-35 with reduced capabilities compared to the full-specification version used by the People's Liberation Army Navy Air Force. This practice aligns with standard international arms export protocols where nations typically provide downgraded versions of their most advanced military equipment to foreign buyers. The development has raised significant concerns within India's defense establishment. The Indian Air Force has historically maintained air superiority over Pakistan through superior pilot training, advanced tactics, and a more diverse aircraft inventory. However, the introduction of stealth technology into Pakistani service threatens to narrow this advantage considerably. Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor, who previously served in key planning positions within the IAF, has suggested pursuing an interim solution to address this capability gap. He advocates for acquiring Russian Sukhoi Su-57 fighters through a government-to-government arrangement, similar to India's previous Rafale acquisition deal. His proposal includes securing technology transfer agreements and coding access to integrate India's domestically developed weapon systems. The Su-57 option presents both advantages and challenges. Proponents argue that Russian systems would offer better compatibility with existing Indian equipment, weapons, and radar systems. Additionally, operating fifth-generation fighters would provide valuable experience for Indian aircrew and ground personnel while the AMCA program continues development. However, not all defense experts support this approach. Critics point to India's previous involvement in the abandoned Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft program with Russia, from which India withdrew after investing approximately $350 million. Concerns about the Su-57's performance capabilities and Russia's limited production capacity for its own air force have influenced this skepticism. Alternative suggestions include considering the American F-35 Lightning II, despite its higher cost and potential technology transfer restrictions. Some analysts view it as a more proven platform with established operational history across multiple air forces worldwide. The AMCA program represents India's long-term solution to achieving fifth-generation fighter capability. Developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency in collaboration with the Air Force and Navy, this twin-engine stealth fighter aims to provide India with an indigenous alternative to foreign systems. The program targets prototype rollout by 2028-29, with full operational capability expected in the mid-2030s. The timing disparity between Pakistan's near-term acquisition and India's long-term development timeline has intensified debates about interim procurement options. Defense analysts emphasize that waiting another decade while regional adversaries enhance their capabilities could compromise India's strategic position. This development occurs within the broader context of evolving regional security dynamics, where both China and Pakistan continue modernizing their military capabilities. The stealth fighter acquisition represents Pakistan's most significant air power enhancement in recent years and could influence tactical considerations across the subcontinent. The situation underscores the challenges facing India's defense procurement and indigenous development strategies. While self-reliance in defense manufacturing remains a national priority, the immediate operational requirements may necessitate difficult decisions about bridging capability gaps through foreign acquisitions. As this technological shift unfolds, it will likely influence regional military planning, defense spending priorities, and strategic partnerships. The introduction of fifth-generation fighter technology into the South Asian theater marks a new chapter in the ongoing regional military competition.
News18
7 days ago
- Business
- News18
India Eyes Russian Su-57 Over American F-35: Final Choice Will Be Strategic, Not Just Tactical
Last Updated: If India does go for a stop-gap foreign fighter, it must not forget the ultimate priority – AMCA. The skies may be contested, but sovereignty cannot be India stands at a historic crossroads. Should it embrace the American F-35 jet, or should it buy the Russian Su-57? Earlier this year, Us President Donald Trump offered India the fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter, a move hailed as game-changing. But just as that offer began gaining traction, another twist emerged—this time from Russia. In a bold and unprecedented play, Moscow sweetened its Su-57 proposal by offering India access to the aircraft's source code. This surprising development sent shockwaves through global defence circles, highlighting India's growing geopolitical leverage while presenting a difficult choice: advanced American technology with restrictions, or Russian flexibility with an uncertain performance history. Reports now suggest that India is actively considering the Russian Su-57 offer over the American F-35. As per CNBC's Parikshit Luthra, government sources have confirmed that India is weighing the Su-57 offer, while no F-35 proposal is under consideration at the moment. What is driving this potential shift? And what should India ultimately choose—an American fighter jet, a Russian one, or should it double down on its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme? The decision is complex, consequential, and likely to shape India's military capabilities, strategic autonomy, and position in the global fifth-generation fighter race. Urgency and Options in India's Jet Quest India's need for fifth-generation jets is urgent. China already has J-20 stealth fighters operational along the border and is preparing to export its J-35 fighter, possibly to Pakistan. India's own AMCA programme has been cleared but is still in its early stages. Even in the most optimistic scenario, it will take several years before a prototype is ready for induction. That timeline makes a stop-gap purchase probable, and global defence manufacturers have been quick to recognise India's dilemma. The American F-35 is widely regarded as the most advanced stealth fighter in the world. Over a thousand F-35s are already in service with countries like Israel and NATO members. The jet has seen real combat, is loaded with cutting-edge sensors and avionics, and excels in stealth and situational awareness. But there are significant problems with this offer. First, the cost: each F-35 is priced between $80 to $110 million, nearly double the cost of the Russian Su-57. Second, the United States has shown no willingness to transfer technology or allow joint production—both non-negotiable for India. Then come the concerns about operational sovereignty. There have long been rumours that the F-35 contains a 'kill switch', a remote mechanism that could disable the aircraft. Whether or not such a feature exists, the core issue is that the aircraft runs on millions of lines of code controlled exclusively by the United States. Without access to the source code, India will not be able to integrate indigenous weapons like the BrahMos, Rudram, or Astra missiles. It would be locked into American munitions and maintenance systems, making the overall cost and dependency much higher. Russia Plays Game-Changing Card This is where Russia's offer stands out. Moscow is offering India the Su-57E, the export version of its fifth-generation Su-57 fighter, along with full access to the source code. This offer includes joint production in India, complete technology transfer, and the freedom to customise the aircraft with Indian weapons systems. With access to the source code, India could upgrade the jet independently, integrate indigenous systems, and reduce dependence on Russian support over time. Even France did not offer source code access for the Rafale jets, which is why India has been unable to integrate its own weapons into those platforms. Russia's proposal also includes upgrades to India's Su-30MKI fleet and support for the AMCA programme, potentially fast-tracking India's overall aerospace capabilities. Russia's Motivation Why is Russia making such an unprecedented offer? One reason is that the Su-57 has very few buyers. The ongoing war in Ukraine and Western sanctions have weakened Russia's defence exports. Only Algeria has reportedly placed an order for the jet. Secondly, the Su-57 hasn't yet achieved mass production. Fewer than 40 jets have been built, and Russia needs financial and industrial support to scale up. Thirdly, India was once part of the Su-57 project. Back in 2007, India and Russia had signed an agreement to jointly develop a fifth-generation fighter. However, India withdrew in 2018 over concerns about cost, performance, disagreements and delays. Still, it had already invested significant sums in the project, and Russia has kept the door open ever since. Reviving that partnership now makes both strategic and economic sense for Moscow. Su-57 vs F-35: Tactical Edges Technically, both the F-35 and Su-57 are fifth-generation jets, but they differ sharply in design philosophy. The F-35 excels in stealth, electronic warfare, and sensor fusion. It is designed to detect enemies first and strike from a distance, making it an ideal first-strike platform. The Su-57, on the other hand, is built for speed, agility, and manoeuvrability. In a long-range encounter, the F-35 would likely spot the Su-57 first. But in a close-range dogfight, the Su-57 could dominate owing to its manoeuvrability. To oversimplify: the F-35 is an offensive fighter, while the Su-57 is a defensive one. When viewed against the backdrop of Chinese capabilities, the Su-57 appears to offer a better match. China's J-20 is already deployed at the Himalayan border, and the J-35, while not yet in service with the Chinese air force, is being marketed aggressively, possibly at a discount to Pakistan. Both jets prioritise stealth, but their capabilities still lag behind the F-35. Compared to the Chinese fighters, the Su-57 holds clear advantages in speed, agility, and weapons integration. Moreover, India's ability to modify and customise the Su-57 would allow it to retain battlefield flexibility—something the F-35 deal cannot offer. F-35 wins in stealth and avionics, and it is battle tested unlike the Su-57, meanwhile while the Su-57 wins in manoeuvrability, weapons flexibility, sovereignty and access, and cost. Not Just Tactical, But Strategic But the decision going forward will not be exclusively tactical— it will be strategic. India weighing the Russian proposal signals that the time-tested India-Russia relationship still holds promise—despite today's geopolitical headwinds. What India seeks are favourable, future-ready deals—not lopsided ones forced at gun-point, even if they come from a key defence partner like the US. Ultimately, the jet should be thoroughly tested in Indian conditions to ensure it meets all operational needs. AMCA is Non-Negotiable top videos View all While this debate plays out, it is crucial that India does not lose sight of the AMCA programme. A big-ticket foreign purchase—whether American or Russian—should not divert attention from India's long-term goal of aerospace independence. The AMCA has been green-lit and is seeking international and private partners to co-develop engines and other critical systems. Talks are ongoing with Britain's Rolls-Royce and France's Safran for engine co-development with full technology transfer. DRDO has promised to deliver the AMCA by 2035. The choice India makes—between the F-35, Su-57 or solely AMCA—will not only shape the future of the Indian Air Force but also define the country's broader strategic posture. If India does go for a stop-gap foreign fighter, it must not forget that the ultimate priority is the AMCA. The skies may be contested, but sovereignty cannot be. About the Author Shubhangi Sharma Shubhangi Sharma is News Editor - Special Projects at News18. She covers foreign affairs and geopolitics, and also keeps a close watch on the national pulse of India. tags : China f35 Indian Air Force Russia Su-57 Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 14, 2025, 10:10 IST News opinion India Eyes Russian Su-57 Over American F-35: Final Choice Will Be Strategic, Not Just Tactical
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First Post
12-06-2025
- Business
- First Post
Is the US quietly stepping back from the F-35 it wants India to buy?
With the US slashing its own F-35 orders and Canada facing a massive cost surge, doubts grow over America's push to sell the fighter jet to India. As Russia pitches co-production of the Su-57 and India prepares its AMCA bid, is New Delhi looking elsewhere for its fifth-generation fighter needs? read more Lockheed Martin's F-35 fighter jet is displayed during the International Bali Airshow at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Kuta, Bali, Indonesia. File Image/Reuters The Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighter jet, once a flagship programme representing the cutting edge of American airpower and a cornerstone of international defence partnerships, is now seeing reduced orders from its primary buyer — the United States military itself. This decline, revealed through recent defence budget documents and procurement figures, comes at a time when the aircraft is being marketed to India, which is simultaneously exploring a competing Russian offer. India's options for acquiring fifth-generation fighter jets are rapidly becoming a topic of urgent importance, as the country seeks to revamp its ageing combat aircraft fleet and address a widening capability gap with regional adversaries. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, the recent developments surrounding the F-35 programme — its cost, reduced orders, and uncertain trajectory — raise pressing questions about whether the United States remains committed to this platform, and if the aircraft remains a viable solution for India's strategic needs. Pentagon slashes F-35 orders According to procurement documentation obtained by Bloomberg and sent to Capitol Hill this week, the Pentagon has sharply reduced its request for new F-35 fighter jets for the US Air Force in the upcoming fiscal year. Only 24 jets are being sought for FY2025 — exactly half the number requested the previous year. In addition to the Air Force reduction, procurement figures also indicate that the US Navy and Marine Corps will receive fewer F-35s than originally planned. An F-35 fighter jet on the deck of the US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George Washington. File Image/AP The US Navy is now requesting 12 of the carrier-based F-35 variant, fewer than the 17 approved the previous year. The Marine Corps has similarly reduced its ask by two aircraft compared to the current fiscal cycle, reported Bloomberg. The new budget allocates $3.5 billion for F-35 acquisitions for the US Air Force, in addition to $531 million earmarked for pre-production materials. These numbers come in the wake of newly announced US defence spending constraints. US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth has initiated an 8 per cent reduction in overall military spending over the next five years, directly impacting flagship projects like the F-35. Lockheed Martin faces market pressure The impact on the defence industry has been immediate. Shares of Lockheed Martin dropped following reports of the order cuts, reflecting investor concern about the shrinking procurement pipeline for one of the company's most lucrative programmes. Lockheed's F-35 project alone accounts for around 30 per cent of its total revenue. In 2024, the company managed to deliver 110 aircraft to US services and allied nations. However, future contracts remain in limbo. The defence manufacturer is still waiting on a finalised agreement with the Pentagon to secure the next round of production — already delayed due to technological upgrades that have yet to be fully integrated into the jet's systems. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The F-35, despite its advanced stealth, AI-enabled combat systems and sensor fusion capabilities, has been the subject of recurring criticism due to its high cost, extended development timelines and maintenance demands. International customers have also begun raising flags. Canada, which signed up to acquire 88 F-35 jets, is now confronting a potential 50 per cent increase in the total projected cost, bringing the estimated expense to C$27.7 billion. A recent audit revealed that factors such as infrastructure upgrades, delays in airbase readiness and pilot shortages have all contributed to the rising bill. These issues are not isolated to Canada, but reflect broader systemic challenges surrounding the F-35 programme that could influence future buyers like India. Trump-Vance revive F-35 offer to India Despite the turbulence in the programme, the F-35 remains central to US defence diplomacy, especially with strategic partners like India. The proposal to offer the aircraft to New Delhi resurfaced under the current US administration, with the US reportedly reaffirming its willingness to facilitate a sale of the fighter jet. India, for its part, is still weighing its options. The F-35 is widely acknowledged as one of the most technologically sophisticated jets available globally. But its high cost — estimated at $80 million per unit — and the complications associated with acquiring such a sensitive platform have kept the discussions tentative. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India's long-term defence planning must also account for delivery schedules, technology transfer commitments, and compatibility with existing systems. With the US reducing its own procurement and allied nations facing ballooning costs, the Indian defence establishment may increasingly question whether the F-35 is the best fit for its immediate and strategic needs. Russia makes Su-57 offer Meanwhile, a parallel and highly competitive offer is being pursued by Russia. Moscow has formally proposed that India join hands to co-produce the Su-57, Russia's own fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, reported CNBC TV18. At the India Today Conclave 2025, Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov declared: 'We're offering our fifth-generation fighter. We have the best machine — the Su-57. We just showed it, displayed it at Aero India last month in Bangalore (Bengaluru) and it performed, and you know, stole the show. It is very competitive; we are offering not only to sell but to co-produce. We offer technology sharing, we offer… you know industry with the creation of necessary industrial facilities for the production of this. We are open to configuration changes. So this is a very lucrative deal that we offer to India.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Russia's offer for India is three-dimensional — it will commence the local production of Su-57E, upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jets with advanced technology, and will back and assist India towards its own fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. File Image/Firstpost According to reports, the Su-57 proposal includes transfer of technology provisions allowing India to integrate its indigenous radars, avionics, and weapon systems into the aircraft. This is particularly significant given India's focus on enhancing domestic capabilities under its 'Make in India' initiative. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) already operates a production line for the Su-30MKI in Nashik, which could potentially be adapted for the Su-57, reducing the infrastructural burden of adopting a new fighter. The offer also fits within India's strategic vision to develop fifth-generation fighter jet engines domestically. To this end, the Indian government is evaluating proposals from Safran and Rolls-Royce, both of which have reportedly offered full technology transfer for indigenous engine development. Indian Air Force's three-tier strategy India's defense establishment has been urgently reviewing options to address the gap in its fighter fleet. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has said that the Air Force needs to induct 35 to 40 fighter jets every year to maintain operational readiness and air superiority, reported CNBC TV18. Currently, India has just 31 active combat squadrons, well below the sanctioned strength of 42. In contrast, China has inducted 435 fighter and ground attack aircraft over the past ten years, while India has lost 151 aircraft in the same timeframe. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD To manage this challenge, the Indian Ministry of Defence has outlined a three-phase plan: short-term acquisitions to meet immediate needs, medium-term partnerships for co-development and co-production, and long-term strategies focused on indigenous capabilities. As part of its medium- and long-term planning, the government is expected to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project within days. Pre-bid consultations are scheduled within two weeks of the RFP release, and final bidding is expected in about 45 days. India's Defence Secretary has also acknowledged the urgency, noting that the ministry has submitted a comprehensive report outlining steps to close the fighter jet capability gap. This report aligns with the ongoing evaluation of international proposals — including both the American F-35 and Russian Su-57 — and domestic developmental initiatives. With inputs from agencies
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First Post
10-06-2025
- Business
- First Post
Russia's Su-57 deal can be a game-changer for India's defence manufacturing
The Su-57 deal could emerge as one of the most significant defence collaborations between India and Russia in the 21st century—potentially propelling India into the ranks of nations with the capability to produce fifth-generation fighter jets on their own ground read more Russia's offer for India is three-dimensional—it will commence the local production of Su-57E, upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jets with advanced technology, and will back and assist India towards its own fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. Image: Firstpost In a significant development that could reshape the contours of India's defence capabilities, Russia has offered to make its fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the Sukhoi Su-57, in India for the Indian Air Force. This innovative proposal, announced on June 4, 2025, represents the most comprehensive technology transfer deal ever offered to India in the defence sector. The Su-57E is the export variant of the Su-57. It consists of advanced radar systems, hides weapons inside internal bays instead of outside, and has a slanted shape that deflects radar waves. Its curved air intakes also block radar from seeing the engine blades. It has the capability for sustained supersonic flight without afterburners. It is designed with stealth features to make it harder for enemies to detect and is a comprehensive suite of weaponry optimised for air superiority and precision strike missions. Together, these features reduce the jet's radar and heat signatures, making it much harder to spot or track. It is considered a technologically mature and combat-proven platform that could potentially be integrated into the Indian Air Force with relative ease. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Russia's Strategic Proposal Russia's offer, which was presented by Rosoboronexport and United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) at Aero India 2025, extends beyond a conventional supply and demand arrangement. It proposes joint production of the Su-57E at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) Nashik facility, where the Su-30MKI is already assembled. The Russian proposal includes a transfer of technology, which allows India to customise the aircraft with indigenous systems like AESA radars, avionics and weaponry. This flexibility in the proposal aligns with the push for self-reliance with the 'Make in India' initiative, serving as a catalyst for transforming the country into a global manufacturing hub for domestic defence production and advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. With HAL's established infrastructure, India could adopt the Su-57E technology rapidly, potentially delivering aircraft within a shorter timeline and ensuring that production and maintenance will not be affected by Western sanctions on Russia. Russia's offer for India is three-dimensional—it will commence the local production of Su-57E, upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jets with advanced technology, and will back and assist India towards its own fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. Russia has also offered to give India access to the Su-57E's software system, which is considered a game changer, as such technological access is rarely given. Countries like the US or France do not allow such access during the sale of their own fighter jets. The access to source codes reflects Russia's openness with the offer and gives India more control and directly responds to a major concern India had during the Rafale fighter jet deal with France. Despite India's repeated efforts through diplomatic channels, France refused to share the Rafale's source code. This refusal made it very difficult for India to fully customise the Rafale jets to its changing defence needs. It has also caused issues in integrating Indian-made weapons like the Astra missile and Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) onto the Rafale, despite ongoing cooperation between the two countries in other areas. If accepted, Russia's offer could give India a major edge in future air combat and could potentially mark a turning point in the country's efforts to modernise its air force. Navigating the China-Pakistan Security Challenge With Pakistan's deepening defence collaboration with its iron brother and China's latest foray into fifth-generation stealth fighter technology, India needs a strategic defence procurement to address the evolving air power landscape in the region. Amidst the persistent geopolitical tensions between India and China, the reports of Pakistan potentially introducing two squadrons of Chinese J-35 fighter jets into the Pakistan Air Force soon can drastically alter the aerial military balance in South Asia. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The J-35, also known as the FC-31 Gyrfalcon, positions China as a competitor to advanced aircraft like the American F-35. This acquisition of J-35 will augment Pakistan's air combat strength, potentially challenging India's existing air superiority. To counter this growing defence capability, the procurement and manufacturing of Russia's Su-57E is essential. Also, India's own fifth-generation AMCA, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency and Defence Research and Development Organisation, remains in the early stages of development and is not expected to enter operational service before the mid-2030s. This projected timeline may create a tactical airpower gap over the next five years, and the Russian Su-57E could potentially bridge the gap. Challenges and Obstacles Ahead While the offer looks promising, it faces significant obstacles. The United States's Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) poses a possibility of sanctions. As earlier seen with India and Russia's S-400 deal, which encountered challenges like facing delays due to payment mechanisms amidst Western sanctions on Russia. With the absence of a robust payment mechanism, similar payment difficulties exist to handle a multi-billion-dollar Su-57 deal. Although the anticipated thaw in US-Russia relations under President Donald Trump may ease pressure of CAASTA sanctions, significant uncertainties still persist, as any major defence transaction with Russia carries the risk of sanctions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Also, Russia's proposal to India comes at a time when the United States is reportedly preparing to extend a proposal for the sale of its own fifth-generation fighter, the F-35A. Washington sees this deal as a strategic opportunity to bolster India's air power capability in response to China's growing belligerence in the Indo-Pacific. However, for New Delhi, this marks a crucial decision—whether to deepen its decades-long defence partnership with Russia or to expand its security partnership with the US, which is seen as a key to countering China's aggression and its strengthening ties with Pakistan. The proposal represents a strategic opportunity for India to gain deeper technological autonomy and greater freedom in shaping its defence posture. The Su-57 deal could emerge as one of the most significant defence collaborations between India and Russia in the 21st century—potentially propelling India into the ranks of nations with the capability to produce fifth-generation fighters on their own ground. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The author is a geopolitical analyst and a doctoral candidate at the Centre for the Study of the Americas at Jawaharlal Nehru University. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views.
India.com
08-06-2025
- Business
- India.com
Russia Drops Historic Super Fighter Bombshell For India; Know What Left America Stunned
New Delhi: Russia has put a game-changing offer on India's table – full access to the source code of its cutting-edge Su-57 stealth fighter jet. This is no longer about buying planes. Moscow is now offering New Delhi not only the supply of its advanced fifth-generation Su-57E fighter but also the complete software technology behind it, plus permission to build the aircraft domestically. This proposal comes as India is seriously weighing the purchase of America's F-35A stealth fighters, leaving the country at crossroads between two global powers. So, what makes Russia's offer so special? For starters, India would get complete access to the Su-57E's source code, allowing Indian engineers to integrate their own weapons and avionics systems. This means a massive boost to India's 'Make in India' ambitions, as the country can not only assemble but manufacture this stealth fighter on its own soil. India could equip the jet with indigenous missiles such as Astra, Rudram and other homegrown weaponry, customising it to its specific defense needs. On the other hand, America's F-35A is widely regarded as a technological marvel, but the United States remains protective of its secrets. India would only get a limited number of F-35 jets, with restricted access to their full capabilities and no software source code handed over. The deal with the United States offers political and strategic advantages, especially through alliances like the QUAD, but it falls short in terms of full technological empowerment. India now faces a high-stakes strategic dilemma. Russia has been a trusted defense partner for decades and is ready to hand over critical technology that can make India self-reliant in the skies. Meanwhile, the United States promises strong diplomatic ties and political support but with limited technological sharing. For India's military modernisation and future readiness, Russia's offer is tempting — full control, local manufacturing and complete sovereignty over an advanced stealth fighter. Choosing between these two giants is more than a procurement decision. It is also about India's long-term defense strategy and where it places its trust – in the tech-rich but cautious the United States or the open-handed yet traditional Russian partner. Whatever India decides will shape its military strength and geopolitical stance for decades to come.
