New Delhi, Oct 10: Russia has reportedly offered India 140 Su-57E fifth-generation stealth fighter jets, with local manufacturing and technology transfer forming key components of the proposed deal. The offer comes as India seeks to strengthen its air combat capabilities amid growing regional security concerns and plans to procure 114 Rafale fighter aircraft from France.

The proposal could give India an opportunity to acquire advanced stealth technology while expanding domestic defence manufacturing. However, the reported offer remains subject to India's assessment and should not be treated as a confirmed procurement order.

Under the proposed arrangement, India would initially purchase 40 Su-57E fighters directly from Russia through a government-to-government (G2G) agreement. The remaining 100 aircraft would be manufactured in India, taking the proposed total to 140 jets. Russia has reportedly proposed converting Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) Nashik facility into a local production hub for the aircraft.

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The offer also includes technology transfer, which could help India develop greater control over maintenance, upgrades and the integration of indigenous weapons systems. Russia has reportedly proposed providing access to the source code of the aircraft's mission computer and radar systems, potentially allowing Indian-developed technologies to be integrated more easily.

Russia is also testing a two-seat version of the Su-57, reportedly keeping the requirements of the Indian Air Force in mind. Similar to the Su-30MKI, the second crew member could assist with weapons management and drone operations, potentially supporting more complex missions.

The proposal comes amid concerns over the growing capabilities of China and Pakistan, both of which are pursuing advanced combat aircraft. A fifth-generation fighter could strengthen India's capabilities in stealth, sensor integration and operations in contested airspace.

However, acquiring 140 Su-57E fighters alongside 114 Rafales would involve substantial expenditure and could place additional pressure on the Indian Air Force's budget. Operating two different aircraft platforms would also require investment in training, maintenance, spare parts and supporting infrastructure.

India will therefore need to evaluate the aircraft's operational capabilities, technology-transfer terms, domestic production costs and long-term strategic requirements before deciding whether to proceed with the reported Russian proposal.