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Continuous improvements in Russian Su-57 boosts its potential for an Indian Govt-to-Govt deal for 36 jets as a stopgap solution, until AMCA arrives: Experts

Source : IgMp Bureau

Continuous improvements in Russian Su-57 boosts its potential for an Indian Govt-to-Govt deal for 36 jets as a stopgap solution, until AMCA arrives: Experts


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India's defense community has been engaged in intense discussions over the country's choice to focus solely on developing the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) while remaining hesitant to acquire foreign fifth-generation stealth fighters. Experts are increasingly concerned, especially with the growing possibility of Pakistan receiving a fifth-generation fighter from China as early as 2026, which raises critical questions about whether India’s sole reliance on the AMCA could put the nation at a disadvantage.


Amid these discussions, Major General S. B. Asthana weighed in on India's possible acquisition of Russia's Su-57 stealth fighter, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between cutting-edge, modern, and legacy equipment in India’s military arsenal. He introduced the "30/60/10 rule," which recommends a mix of 30% state-of-the-art systems, 60% current-generation technology, and only 10% outdated equipment in the Air Force’s fighter squadrons. According to Asthana, such a balanced strategy ensures operational readiness and the continuous upgrade of defense technology.


India's push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing through the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative has made considerable progress, particularly with the Tejas fighter and AMCA programs. However, there are still areas where external collaborations or purchases are necessary. The Su-57, with its advanced stealth features, avionics, and fifth-generation capabilities, presents an immediate solution for strengthening India’s air combat capabilities in the short term.


While India is making strides in domestic defense production, there are still technologies, particularly in stealth and advanced avionics, that need further development. As Maj Gen Asthana pointed out, acquiring proven systems like the Su-57 is critical to maintaining operational readiness, particularly when certain technological aspects are not yet fully developed in India’s indigenous projects. The Su-57, which competes with advanced aircraft like the U.S. F-35 and China’s J-20, would enhance India’s air dominance through its stealth capabilities, supersonic cruise ability, and integrated avionics.


The immediate integration of an operational fighter like the Su-57 into India’s air force could offer a tactical advantage in contested airspaces, unlike developmental platforms that require years of testing and optimization. Asthana noted that acquiring such equipment ensures it is ready for deployment the moment it is inducted, which could be a game-changer for India’s defense posture.


However, Asthana also emphasized that the decision to procure the Su-57 should be made carefully, taking into account India’s strategic needs, budget constraints, and long-term goals for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This balanced approach underlines the complexities of modernizing India’s armed forces, where short-term needs must be weighed against the broader vision of indigenous defense development.


The recent upgrades to the Su-57 have further increased its appeal as a viable option for India. According to reports, Russia's United Aircraft Corporation is testing a new 2D thrust vectoring nozzle on the Su-57’s AL-51F1 engine, providing the aircraft with supercruise capabilities without the use of afterburners. This new development could significantly improve the aircraft’s low-observability and maneuverability at low speeds, making it an even more formidable competitor in the skies.


Further advancements include the introduction of a new Helmet Mounted Display (HMD), a feature previously absent on the Su-57 but crucial for modern fighters. This HMD, similar to those used on the F-35 and J-20, projects essential flight and targeting data directly onto the pilot's visor, improving situational awareness and narrowing the performance gap with its competitors.


With these upgrades, the Su-57 is becoming a much more attractive option for the Indian Air Force as a short-term solution until the AMCA is ready. A deal for 36 Su-57 jets could serve as a stopgap measure to bolster the Air Force’s capabilities while giving the AMCA program the time it needs to mature. The Indian Air Force has long operated Russian platforms, including the Su-30MKI and MiG-29, and integrating the Su-57 into its existing fleet would be a seamless transition, providing both immediate and long-term benefits for India’s defense strategy.


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