New Delhi. The recent agreement between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) for the production of civil aircraft Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SJ-100) in India has sparked a new discussion in the defense and aviation circles. After this partnership, the question has now become stronger whether Russia is preparing to open the doors of Indian Air Force for its most lethal fifth generation fighter aircraft Sukhoi Su-57 through civil aviation.
This agreement signed between India and Russia in the field of civil aviation is being considered a major milestone in the direction of Make in India. The SJ-100 is a regional jet and its manufacturing in India will strengthen the aerospace ecosystem. Defense experts believe that this civil aircraft agreement can be a test case for future larger military agreements. Meanwhile, statements by top officials of the Russian aerospace company have further fueled this speculation. United Aircraft Corporation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Vadim Badekha has indicated that the two countries are discussing the technical possibilities of joint production of the Su-57E fighter aircraft. According to him, the facilities already existing in India for the production of Sukhoi Su-30 can be used for licensed production of Su-57.
SU-57 Fellow is Russia’s first fifth generation stealth fighter, which has unmatched ability to escape from radar sight. This aircraft is equipped with supercruise technology, which allows it to fly faster than the speed of sound without afterburner. Its missiles are hidden in its internal weapon bay, which makes its stealth feature more effective. However, India and the Su-57 have had a checkered history. India was earlier a part of the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft program with Russia, but India withdrew from the project in 2018 due to technology transfer and cost issues.
Now the tables seem to be turning because Russia has developed a new and more powerful engine for the Su-57, which can address India’s old concerns. Also, with China having increasing numbers of fifth generation aircraft like the J-20, the Indian Air Force feels an urgent need for a stealth fighter. Additionally, the threat of US sanctions on major defense deals with Russia is also a major diplomatic factor. India no longer wants to remain a mere buyer, rather its emphasis is on complete technology transfer. If Russia makes concrete proposals on this front, the future may see fellow Indians protecting the skies. At present, the main focus of the Air Force is on strengthening the next batch of Rafale and indigenous aircraft like Tejas.