Russia is exploring plans to manufacture its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets in India, with defence sources saying investment options are under review amid growing New Delhi-Moscow defence alignment despite US tariff pressures.
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.