India should choose the two-seat version of the fifth-generation Su-57 multirole fighter, as it outperforms the standard single-seat version. This opinion was expressed by former Indian Air Force pilot Vijainder Thakur in an article for the Eurasian Times.
According to the expert, the two-seat Su-57 may appeal to New Delhi for several reasons.
The Indian Air Force has always valued two-seat aircraft, including the Su-30MKI. This configuration simplifies pilot training on complex fifth-generation systems.
In addition, it is easier for two pilots to complete a combat mission. One of them will monitor the instruments and be responsible for the situation in the air, the other will be responsible for the weapons, Thakur believes.
The Su-57 crew will be able to control unmanned aerial vehicles, such as the S-70 "Okhotnik". This will increase the effectiveness of combat operations.
The two-seat Su-57 can act as an airborne command center for mixed groups of aircraft — ideal for integrating Su-30MKI, Rafale into a combat network.
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