Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered India the advanced Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter jet and proposed joint production of the aircraft, highlighting continued defence cooperation between the two countries.
During an interaction with international media, Putin said Russia was ready to work with India on the Su-57 programme without any restrictions. He noted that India was earlier invited to jointly develop the fighter jet, which he described as one of the best aircraft in its class.
India is currently developing its indigenous Advanced Multirole Combat Aircraft (AMCA), but the project is expected to enter service only after 2035. As an interim measure, New Delhi is reportedly evaluating the purchase of at least two squadrons of Su-57 fighters. Officials said Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is in discussions with Russia’s Sukhoi Design Bureau regarding possible cooperation.
Putin also expressed readiness to collaborate with India on air defence systems, including support for the S-400 missile programme. India had signed a $5 billion deal with Russia in 2018 for five S-400 units and is considering acquiring additional systems.
Responding to the proposal, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India-Russia defence relations remain strong and that the Ministry of Defence would provide further details on the Su-57 offer.
