By The Sampadak Express
As Aero India 2025 kicks off on February 10 in Bengaluru, the race to secure India’s fifth-generation fighter jet contract is heating up. Both Russia and the United States are pushing to supply India with next-generation air combat capabilities, with each country showcasing their latest fighter jets to capture India’s attention.
Russia’s Su-57E Stealth Fighter Makes Debut
Russia has made a strong entry at Aero India, unveiling its Su-57 stealth fighter jet in Indian airspace for the first time. The Russian pitch centers on the Su-57E, the export version of the Su-57, which Russia’s Rosoboronexport is offering to India with both direct purchase and joint production options.
The arrival of the Su-57 in India is part of Moscow’s renewed effort to strengthen defense ties with New Delhi. Russia has long been a key defense partner for India, and the Su-57E is positioned as the next step in their collaboration. India’s historical ties with Russia go back to the early 2000s when both nations teamed up to co-develop a stealth fighter under the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project. Although India withdrew from the project in 2018 to focus on its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), the Su-57E could mark a return to joint production with Russia.
The US F-35: A Western Option for India’s Air Superiority
On the other hand, the United States is promoting the F-35 as India’s best option for its next-generation air superiority needs. With its advanced stealth features and proven battlefield performance, the F-35 is being positioned as a game-changer for India’s air force. Already showcased in India, the F-35 is a key part of Washington’s broader strategy to deepen defense ties with India, aligning the country more closely with Western defense systems.
The US has been ramping up defense cooperation with India in recent years, through joint military exercises and agreements aimed at enhancing interoperability. The F-35 would mark a significant strategic shift for India, offering capabilities that could bolster its operational readiness alongside its allies.
India’s AMCA Program and Foreign Fighter Jet Options
India is also working on developing its own indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet, the AMCA, which has encountered technological and manufacturing challenges. While the Indian government has approved the construction of six prototypes, the first is not expected to be ready for another five years. With delays in the Tejas Mark II program and concerns over engine development, India’s AMCA might not be operational before 2035. As a result, India is exploring the option of acquiring advanced foreign fighter jets as an interim solution.
Russia vs. the US: A Contrast in Approaches
Both Russia and the US have been key suppliers of military hardware to India, but their approaches differ. Russia has long dominated India’s defense procurement, accounting for around 60-70% of its military supplies. Moscow has also shared advanced defense technology with India, leading to collaborations on platforms like the BrahMos missile, AK-203 rifles, and the Su-30MKI fighter jet.
In contrast, the US has significantly increased its defense cooperation with India in recent years, with a particular emphasis on joint military exercises and enhancing interoperability. The F-35 represents a deeper alignment of India with Western defense ecosystems, potentially shifting the dynamics of the regional defense landscape.
As both Russia and the US continue to compete for the fifth-generation fighter jet deal, India’s decision will have far-reaching implications for its air defense strategy, defense partnerships, and future military capabilities.
