Russia offered India a package of eight Su-57E fifth-generation stealth fighters.
Russian technical teams inspected Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) facilities in Nashik for potential joint production. The Nashik site has an established history of manufacturing Su-30MKI jets.
The proposal addresses India’s squadron deficit as regional rivals China and Pakistan advance their air capabilities. The Su-57E would serve as a bridge for operational stealth experience while India develops its own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
Joint production could facilitate significant technology transfers and strengthen India’s domestic defense manufacturing ecosystem.