NI: India Has Rejected Russia's Fifth-generation Su-57 Fighter Jet

• 15.12.2025, 16:52

Performance and reliability leave questions.

Despite Putin's recent visit to India, prospects for the Indian Air Force to purchase the Russian fifth-generation Su-57 (Felon, according to NATO classification) fighter jet remain dim. Talks on the deal, including joint production and technology transfer, have not advanced since March 2025, writes The National Interest (translated by Charter97.org).

"India is focused on developing its own platforms," said an Indian military source. At the same time, Russia continues to promote the Su-57, promising flexibility in configuration and the creation of the necessary production facilities. However, the offer has met with an "indifferent response," even though the aircraft impresses at air shows thanks to its complex maneuvers, including flips and sudden braking in the air.

The Su-57 has been popular at international exhibitions - including Aero India and Dubai Air Show 2025 - but has yet to find significant buyers, with the exception of Algeria, which has agreed to buy about a dozen machines.

Nevertheless, India continues to cooperate with Russia in the defense sector, buying S-400 SAMs and participating in the joint production of T-90 main battle tanks. In fact, the Su-57 is not a priority platform for the Indian Army.

Experts note that the Su-57 impresses the public at the show, but its performance and reliability leave questions. Ultimately, India relies on developing its own technology, which reduces interest in the Russian fighter. Russia is probably disappointed by such a cool reception of its "flagship" combat vehicle.