Top News

Russia has offered India a two-seater version of its advanced stealth fighter aircraft Su-57, involving full transfer of technology (ToT). The objective of this proposal is to restart the previously stalled Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program between India and Russia and to temporarily fill the gap in the Indian Air Force’s stealth capability.

The proposal came to light during the ‘Wings India 2026’ exhibition held in Hyderabad and subsequent high-level talks between officials of the two countries. Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) is trying to make India its major aerospace partner again.

Under the Russian proposal, India will be given full access to several critical technologies so that major aircraft components can be manufactured indigenously under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. This also includes the new generation Izhdeliye-30 (AL-51F1) engines, which began flight testing in the late 2025 and are now being installed on new Su-57 aircraft.

The proposal also includes Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, advanced optical sensors, access to source code for integration of Indian missiles like BrahMos and Astra, and Artificial Intelligence based systems for combat automation.

It is noteworthy that India had separated itself from the FGFA program in 2018. The decision was taken at the time due to cost overruns, reduced Indian participation, and concerns over the Su-57’s stealth features and engine reliability. After this the Indian Air Force focused on the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project. The AMCA prototype is expected to fly by 2029, while full production could begin in the mid-2030s.

Russia is now offering the Su-57 as a strategic bridge to meet India’s fifth generation fighter requirement until the AMCA is developed.

The most important part of the Russian proposal is a multi-role twin-seat version of the Su-57, potentially named Su-57M. It is designed for modern “Manned-Unmanned Teaming” (MUM-T) operations. In this configuration, the rear operator can assume the role of mission commander and take control of the drone convoy, while the pilot will focus on air combat and operations.

According to reports, the prototype of this twin-seat version is being prepared at the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Plant and its first flight may take place in late 2026 or early 2027. The aircraft will be capable of speeds greater than Mach-2, supercruise capability and missions such as stealth attacks as well as drone coordination.

The Indian Air Force has shown interest in the upgraded Su-57M1E, but is adopting a cautious approach as its long-term strategy is based on the AMCA project. According to reports, India may consider purchasing a limited number of about two squadrons. Also under discussion is the possibility of licensed production at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), as was done earlier with the Su-30MKI.

This proposal has come at a time when regional military competition is increasing rapidly. China has already deployed more than 200 J-20 stealth fighters and is also likely to export aircraft like J-31 or J-35 to Pakistan in future.

If India accepts this proposal, it could accelerate the modernization of the Indian Air Force and provide an opportunity to integrate Russian stealth technology with Indian weapon systems. However, while taking the final decision, India will have to balance the immediate military need, cost and its goal of self-reliance in the defense sector.

America troubled by rising oil prices, reaches out for Russian oil

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei lost leg in airstrike; claimed to be in coma!

Tamil Nadu: Muslims protest against renovation of 300 year old Hindu temple

Sunrisers’ betrayal will cost heavily; Fans angry after buying Pakistani player