New Delhi: India Su-57 deal is taking a cautious turn as New Delhi is reportedly delaying large-scale orders of Russia’s fifth-generation fighter jet. Instead, India plans to wait for the more advanced Su-57M1 variant, which promises better performance and technology.
Why India Is Delaying Su-57 Orders
India is not rejecting the Su-57 fighter jet. Instead, it is choosing quality over speed. Reports suggest that India may initially procure a small number of Su-57 jets for immediate needs. But large-scale orders will only happen after the improved Su-57M1 becomes available.
Read also: India Russia Su-57 Stealth Jets Deal: Timeline, Features, and Strategic Impact Explained
This approach helps India:
- Avoid investing heavily in an older version
- Get access to better future technology
- Reduce long-term upgrade costs
Why India is Seeking Su-57M1 Over Su-57 Deal
The upcoming Su-57M1 variant is expected to bring major upgrades:
- New AL-51F1 engine for better speed and efficiency
- Improved stealth design
- Advanced avionics and radar systems
- Better maintenance and operational availability
These improvements could place the aircraft closer to global competitors like the F-22 and F-35 in terms of capability.
Su-57 Deal: India’s Two-Step Strategy
India is following a dual-track strategy:
1. Short-Term Plan
India may buy around 40 jets directly from Russia to quickly strengthen its air power.
2. Long-Term Plan
- Wait for Su-57M1
- Start licensed production in India
- Increase indigenous components over time
This mirrors India’s earlier success with the Su-30MKI program, which was produced locally under license.
Technology Transfer: A Key Factor
Russia has reportedly offered:
- Full or partial technology transfer
- Access to source codes
- Integration of Indian systems and weapons
This is a big advantage because Western countries usually do not share such deep technology.
Why India Still Needs Su-57
The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently faces a serious shortage of fighter jets.
- Required squadrons: 42
- Current strength: around 29–31 squadrons
At the same time:
- China is expanding its J-20 stealth fleet
- Pakistan continues to modernize its air force
So, India needs a quick solution + long-term plan, and the Su-57 fits this gap.
Impact of AMCA Delay
India’s own stealth fighter program, AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft), is still years away.
- Expected induction: mid-2030s
Because of this delay:
- India needs a temporary fifth-generation fighter
- Su-57 acts as a bridge solution
Global Context of Su-57
Russia has already started exporting the Su-57 to some countries, including confirmed interest from nations like Algeria.
This shows that the aircraft is moving from development to global deployment stage.
Su-57M1 Deal: Strategic Advantages for India
If India proceeds with Su-57M1 later, it could gain:
- Stronger air dominance in Asia
- Reduced dependency on imports over time
- Boost to domestic defence manufacturing
- Better preparedness against China and Pakistan
