IDRW: Russia wants to make India part of Su-57 production chain

Foreign companies can join cooperation for the production of fighters for export and for the Russian Aerospace Forces

Russia views India not just as a buyer of Su-57 fighters, but as a long-term partner in their production, IDRW reports, citing Indian sources. Moscow seeks to replicate the successful Su-30MKI model, where Indian industry became part of the production chain, the Indian publication claims.

IDRW

According to IDRW, Russia's proposal involves transforming Indian companies into full-fledged suppliers of components and subsystems not only for aircraft assembled in India, but also for fighters intended for the Russian Aerospace Forces and future export customers.

However, the needs of the Indian Air Force allegedly diverge from Moscow's expectations. The publication's sources indicate that India is interested in acquiring only two to three squadrons of Su-57s, i.e., about 36–54 aircraft, and primarily through direct purchase of ready-made aircraft to quickly close existing gaps in its fifth-generation fighter fleet. Such a volume does not justify the creation of a large production line in the country.

Russia, on the other hand, proposes that India organize the production of about 100 aircraft. This, according to Moscow, will make production commercially viable and allow Indian suppliers to enter into long-term cooperation for the production of Su-57s, including supplies for third countries. The publication's sources believe that Moscow views India's participation as a way to give additional impetus to the Su-57 program, which has not yet entered large-scale production. The integration of Indian companies will help reduce costs and strengthen the aircraft's position in the international market. For India, the decision is related to the balance between obtaining technologies and loading industry on the one hand, and its own needs and the AMCA national fighter program on the other.

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