Bengaluru is abuzz as Aero India 2025 kicks off at Yelahanka Air Force Station. The event is drawing aviation enthusiasts and defence experts from around the world. This year’s highlight isn’t just the thrilling aerial displays but the strategic defence offers being made behind the scenes.
Table of Contents
Russia’s Bold Proposal: Joint Production of Su-57
Russia has made headlines by offering India a renewed chance to join in the production of its fifth-generation fighter jet, the Sukhoi Su-57. Russian officials expressed keen interest in co-producing the Su-57 with India and even assisting in the development of India’s own stealth fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
This isn’t the first time India and Russia have considered such a partnership. In 2007, both countries signed an agreement to jointly develop the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA), with India investing around $300 million. However, the project stalled in 2018 due to disagreements over design, stealth features, engine performance, and technology sharing. Despite these past challenges, Russia remains hopeful, signalling its readiness to revive the collaboration if India shows interest.
America Stays Silent on F-35 Offers
While Russia actively pitches its Su-57 for joint production, the U.S. has remained tight-lipped about offering its F-35 stealth fighter to India. Two American F-35s landed at Yelahanka Air Base, sharing airspace with the Russian Su-57 for the first time. Like they say, you get to find an F35 and Su-57 together either in a war or in India! However, these jets are limited to static displays and simple flybys this time, due to a reported shortage of stunt pilots.
The U.S. had previously hinted at the possibility of offering the F-35 to India, but there’s been no official confirmation yet. Discussions about India’s procurement of the F-35 could potentially surface during high-level diplomatic meetings, but for now, Washington remains non-committal.
Strategic Implications for India
The simultaneous presence of U.S. and Russian stealth fighters at Aero India 2025 highlights India’s strategic position in global defence politics. Russia’s proactive offer for joint production contrasts with America’s reserved stance. This dynamic forces India to weigh its options carefully, balancing defence partnerships while advancing its Indigenous fighter programs.
As Aero India 2025 unfolds, all eyes are on how India navigates these offers, shaping the future of its air force amidst evolving geopolitical landscapes.
India’s Homegrown Fighter: AMCA in Focus
Meanwhile, India is reportedly progressing with its indigenous AMCA program, which aims to produce a state-of-the-art fifth-generation stealth fighter. A model of the AMCA is showcased at Aero India 2025, reflecting India’s ambitions to strengthen its defence capabilities independently.
Developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), with manufacturing support from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the AMCA is still in the design phase. The Indian Air Force plans to induct around seven squadrons once production begins. However, India has yet to finalize the engine supplier, with American GE, French Safran, and British Rolls Royce competing for the contract.
