has put forward a compelling case for the licensed production of Russia’s
Su-57 stealth fighter within India, according to a
report by
Sputnik India.
He suggests that such an initiative would not only drastically reduce the unit
costs of the aircraft but also significantly accelerate the timelines for
their induction into service. This proposal comes at a time when the Indian
Air Force is looking to bolster its combat capabilities with advanced
fifth-generation platforms.
The veteran highlights that India possesses a wealth of proven expertise in
handling Russian aviation platforms, citing the long history of operating the
MiG series and the successful licensed production of the Su-30MKI.
🚨🇮🇳🇷🇺 India’s Su-57 program may boost self-reliance to 70%: IAF Vet
Indigenous content could steadily climb from 30% to 70% over time through domestic production.
If inducted by 2035, these jets could serve the IAF for 40–50 years — just like other rugged Russian fighters.👇 https://t.co/aIDXiOqiQ1 pic.twitter.com/whKuZGK1hZ
— Sputnik India (@Sputnik_India) April 6, 2026
This existing technical foundation would allow for a progressive
indigenisation process. According to Devnath, Indian industry could
realistically scale its contribution from an initial 30 per cent to as much as
70 per cent, covering critical areas such as avionics, mission software, and
complex airframe structures.
Beyond the initial purchase, the report emphasises the substantial economic
benefits of domestic manufacturing. Local production would lead to significant
savings across the entire lifecycle of the aircraft, including acquisition,
long-term sustainment, and the overall cost-per-flying-hour.
By reducing dependence on imported components and foreign technicians, India
could ensure a more cost-effective and sustainable fleet management strategy
for its frontline fighters.
This move would be fully aligned with the national ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
(Self-Reliant India) initiative, which seeks to transform the country into a
global manufacturing hub for defence equipment.
Furthermore, the veteran argues that the Su-57 project could serve as a vital
technological bridge to India’s own indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft
(AMCA) program. The skills and infrastructure developed while building the
Su-57 could directly feed into the success of the domestic stealth fighter
project.
A key advantage noted by the retired officer is the flexibility offered by
Russian defence partnerships compared to those with Western nations. He
observes that Russian platforms generally allow for a much higher degree of
localisation and technology transfer.
If New Delhi decides to re-engage with the Su-57 program through a domestic
manufacturing lens, it could represent a game-changing shift in India’s
strategic posture and industrial capability.
Sputnik India
