For India, the key condition of the contract for the delivery of the Su-57E is technology transfer. Analyst Stanislav Fedchishin spoke about the details of a likely defense agreement on the Russian fifth-generation fighter.
According to him, for India the combat aircraft delivery project is of strategic importance; it is aimed at developing its own industry.
Negotiations on Su-57E deliveries are taking place against the backdrop of a possible alternative — the American F-35 fighter. However, U.S. export restrictions do not provide for technology transfer or the organization of production abroad. Yet technology transfer for India is precisely the main substance of any defense contracts.
Fedchishin added that the Russian side's proposal emphasizes deep localization, technology transfer, and adaptation of the Su-57E to the requirements of the Indian armed forces.
The conclusion of the agreement will make India the first foreign state that will not only acquire, but also be able to produce the Russian stealth fighter.
Indian media reported that the republic's government is in no hurry to sign a contract on the localization of Su-57 production and expects a detailed report from the Russian side on the cost of such a project.
Aviation expert Roman Gusarov explained to "Pervyi Tekhnicheskii" why localization of the Su-57 in India will be beneficial for Russia. The United Aircraft Corporation noted that the contract for Su-57 deliveries to India is at an "advanced stage of technical consultations".
Read more materials on the topic:
- Su-57 breaks into the global market — Chemezov announced growing international demand
- In the West, they started talking about a "big prize" for Russia if India buys the Su-57
- The Su-57E became the only real stealth fighter option for India
