The Indian Air Force plans to replenish its fleet with seven squadrons of Russian Su-57 fighters, with a total purchase volume of 140 units. This is reported by Military Watch Magazine (MWM). According to the magazine, some of the aircraft will be built in Russia, while the main production will be urgently deployed at the Indian Hindustan Aeronautic enterprises.
The increased interest of the Indian Ministry of Defense in the Su-57 was due to recent operational realities, when the aircraft was recognized as optimal for filling a significant deficit in the field of specific weapons and flight range. The Su-57 not only has a much greater flight range than other fighters deployed in the region, and than any other type of fighter in the Western world, but also its air-to-air missiles and cruise missiles can contribute to strikes much deeper into enemy territory.
Analysts at the publication emphasize that the fighter's stealth and advanced electronic warfare capabilities will also provide a much greater degree of survivability, potentially allowing strikes to penetrate deep into Pakistani airspace.
The Su-57 has already been repeatedly used in combat conditions to suppress enemy air defenses and in other operations in heavily defended airspaces. In early August, it became known that a hypersonic air-to-surface missile designed for operational use was installed on the Su-57 for the first time. This development may attract the attention of the Indian Air Force.
Among other things, the choice in favor of Russian technology is due to New Delhi's dissatisfaction with the capabilities of the French Rafale, which did not show high efficiency in the border confrontation with Pakistan, unlike the Su-57, whose flight and combat characteristics meet all requirements.
The Su-57 is a Russian fifth-generation multi-role fighter. It is characterized by low visibility and increased maneuverability. It can strike air, ground and sea targets and can be used around the clock, including in difficult weather conditions, when air defense systems and other interference are in operation.
Earlier, www1.ru reported that the Republika Srpska received all the Ansat helicopters ordered from Russia.
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