It has become known that India is considering accelerated acquisition and localized production of Russian Su-57E stealth fighters with access to the source codes of the onboard software. According to Defence Security Asia, this involves the delivery of 36 to 60 fully assembled aircraft in a short timeframe, which should close a critical gap in combat aviation before the Indian AMCA program becomes operational.
The initiative is linked to the Russian side's proposal for an expanded export version of the Su-57, as well as a possible deep adaptation of the platform to India's requirements, including a localized assembly option, conditionally designated as Su-57D. A key element of the negotiation model is the transfer of part of the software and control architecture, which potentially opens access to deeper integration of Indian weapon and communication systems.
According to the publication, the discussed concept involves rapid deliveries of finished aircraft within a few years, which will allow the Indian Air Force to acquire stealth combat aircraft earlier than its own AMCA program reaches combat readiness. Thus, the focus is on temporary technological enhancement through an existing fifth-generation platform, rather than waiting for a fully national solution.
AMCA is an Indian program for creating a fifth-generation fighter called Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft.
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