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Amid Washington’s steep tariffs on Indian exports, Russia is weighing a major defence move — manufacturing its fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jets in India. Defence sources told ANI that Russian agencies are “assessing the level of investment required to manufacture the aircraft in India.”
The discussions come as President Donald Trump has slapped 25% tariffs across sectors, with an additional 25% citing New Delhi’s purchase of Russian crude oil. Yet, instead of pushing India away from Moscow, the measures appear to be strengthening defence cooperation between the two.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which already produces the Su-30 MKI in Nashik, is viewed as a potential hub if the Su-57 deal takes shape. Sources also pointed out that “there are other facilities in India also where a number of other Russian origin equipment is manufactured and can be used in the fifth-generation fighter aircraft production… which would also help cut costs.”
India has previously flagged the need for at least two to three squadrons of fifth-generation fighters. Both the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35 are contenders, with Moscow actively pitching the Su-57 while Washington continues to push New Delhi towards the F-35.
In past engagements, India has also sought advanced Russian systems like the S-400 and S-500, signalling the depth of the defence partnership. India was once part of Russia’s Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft programme but withdrew nearly a decade ago over differences. According to sources, however, “the project could be revived given the current global scenario.”
At the same time, India is pursuing its own indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft, expected to fly by 2028 and be ready for induction by 2035.
