Russia has officially offered its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets to India. The offer includes the possibility of joint production and creating an indigenous version, as stated by Rosoboronexport.

According to Alexander Mikheev, CEO of Rosoboronexport, India is being offered both Su-57E deliveries and support for the domestic production of the fighter. At Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, the Su-57, which has been tested in Ukraine against Western air defence systems including the Patriot, NASAMS and IRIS-T, is anticipated to be on exhibit and take part in flying demonstrations. “Rosoboronexport offers comprehensive development of cooperation on the Su-57E project. Our proposals include the supply of finished aircraft, the organisation of their joint production in India, and assistance in the development of an Indian fifth-generation fighter," said Alexander Mikheev.

Visitors to the Russian pavilion at the airshow will have the chance to experience the aircraft using a VR flight simulator. The Su-57, famous for its stunning aerobatic displays at events like Moscow's MAKS Air Show and Air Show China in Zhuhai, marked 15 years of participation since its first flight in January 2010. The aircraft has stealth features, an advanced AESA radar system, and can fire low-visibility cruise missiles from its internal weapon bays. The Su-57 is also set to get a new AL-51F1 engine, which allows it to fly at supersonic speeds without using afterburners, improving its overall combat performance.

However, the U.S. Air Force has cancelled its planned demonstration flights of the F-35 and upgraded F-16 at Aero India 2025. The F-35, which was a big highlight at the event in 2023, was expected to draw a lot of attention this year, but with its absence, the focus may now shift to the Su-57.