India Considers Russia's Su-57 Fighter Jet Amidst Growing Air Power Needs Against China
India is evaluating Russia's Sukhoi Su-57 as a potential fifth-generation fighter jet to enhance its air capabilities against China's advancements, particularly the J-35. With the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) receiving prototype approval in 2024 and expected induction into the Indian Air Force by 2035, India seeks immediate alternatives.
The Su-57, developed from the Indo-Russian FGFA agreement, offers advanced features such as thrust-vectoring technology and a sophisticated avionics system. Each Su-57 is priced at approximately USD 25 million, significantly lower than China's J-20 and the US F-35.
India's AMCA will be a stealthy, multirole aircraft, estimated to cost around ₹15,000 crore. The growing aerial threats from China and Pakistan underline the urgency for India to secure advanced fighter capabilities.
