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India in Advanced Talks to Acquire Russian Su-57 Stealth Fighters Amid Shifting Defense Strategy
By [Your Name], Defense Correspondent
June 18, 2025
New Delhi has entered the final stages of negotiations with Moscow to procure advanced Su-57 Felon fifth-generation stealth fighters, multiple defense sources confirmed today. The potential $5.2 billion deal for 24 aircraft would mark India's most significant military purchase since its 2016 Rafale acquisition and dramatically alter the air power balance in South Asia.
Breaking: Deal Structure Emerges
According to documents obtained by our bureau, the proposed package includes:
18 Su-57s in ready-to-deploy condition (2026-27 delivery)
6 trainers with dual-seat configuration
3 Il-78 aerial refuelers modified for Su-57 operations
120 R-77M air-to-air missiles (190 km range)
Technology transfer for limited domestic maintenance
A senior MoD official stated: "The CCS will review the final proposal next week. This isn't just about aircraft—it's about securing our 2040 air dominance roadmap."
Why India Wants the Felon
China Factor
PLAAF operates 50+ J-20 stealth fighters
Recent J-20 deployments near Ladakh detected
Su-57's 1,500 km combat radius covers all Himalayan hotspots
Rafale Limitations
Current fleet of 36 Rafales insufficient for two-front scenario
Dassault's upgrade roadmap lags behind threats
Domestic Delays
AMCA fifth-gen fighter program delayed to 2038
TEDBF naval fighter still in design phase
Technical Edge Over Regional Rivals
| Feature | Su-57 | Pakistan's J-10C | China's J-20 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radar Cross Section | 0.5 m² | 3 m² | 0.2 m² |
| Supercruise | Mach 1.3 | No | Mach 1.2 |
| Weapon Bays | 4 internal | None | 4 internal |
| Avionics | N036 Byelka AESA | KLJ-7A AESA | Type 1475 AESA |
Controversial Aspects
Sanctions Risk: CAATSA waiver from US uncertain
Operational History: Only 12 Su-57s currently serve in Russian forces
Cost: $217M per unit (3× Rafale's price)
IAF veteran Air Marshal R. Nambiar (Ret.) cautions: "We're buying capabilities that remain unproven in combat. The maintenance ecosystem will take years to establish."
Global Reactions
Washington: State Dept. spokesperson noted "concerns about deepening defense ties with Russia"
Beijing: Global Times called it "a destabilizing move"
Islamabad: PAF reportedly fast-tracking J-31 stealth fighter talks with China
What's Next?
July 2025: Final contract expected at Modi-Putin summit
2026: First squadron deployment likely at Hasimara AFB (China border)
2027-30: Potential follow-on order for 36 more units
Defense analysts suggest the Su-57 acquisition could trigger a regional arms race, with both China and Pakistan expected to respond with additional stealth fighter deployments. As India takes its most significant step toward fifth-generation air power, the subcontinent enters uncharted strategic territory.
This developing story will be updated following the CCS meeting. Sources: MoD documents, IAF briefings, Rosoboronexport communications.
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