India is considering the Russian fifth-generation Su-57E fighter as a strategic backup option in case Pakistan acquires the Chinese J-35A earlier than expected, according to the Indian publication IDRW. Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, at a recent summit, evaded a direct answer about potential purchases, stating only that India is evaluating all options from friendly countries to address the deficit in its fifth-generation fighter fleet.
While India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) remains under development, with its induction not expected before 2032, the Su-57 could provide a temporary but significant boost. According to analysts, if a positive decision is made, the first aircraft could appear in India as early as 2027–2028. The Russian fighter, equipped with AL-51F1 thrust vectoring engines and a Belka AESA radar, can be easily integrated with the existing Su-30MKI fleet.
Negotiations for cooperation on the Su-57 began in 2018, and by 2024, they evolved into discussions about joint production of 114 aircraft under a $15–20 billion contract. In August 2025, Vladimir Putin offered India a "golden deal" with technology transfer and local assembly at domestic facilities. However, progress stalled after the start of the armed conflict involving the Russian Federation. According to IDRW sources, New Delhi suspended negotiations until the end of active hostilities, allegedly fearing supply disruptions and possible pressure from the West.
Meanwhile, the situation with the Chinese J-35A for Pakistan remains unclear. In May 2025, information emerged about a quick deal for 40 aircraft with a 50 percent discount and initial deliveries in the first quarter of 2026. However, these reports were later not confirmed. Pakistan's Defense Minister denied plans to acquire the J-35A, calling them "speculative." Pakistani officials and Air Force representatives, who previously actively discussed ambitions to acquire fifth-generation fighters, are now not commenting on the situation.
This pause gives India additional time, allowing it to focus on the development of its own AMCA fighter, IDRW writes. However, if Pakistan does acquire the J-35A, the balance of power in the region could significantly shift. In this situation, the Russian Su-57 remains for India, if not the primary, then a reliable backup option.
