Russia’s offer to transfer fifth-generation fighter jet technology to India is being seen as a strategic overture at a time when New Delhi’s relations with Washington are strained over trade disputes and diplomatic spats.
Analysts say the proposed transfer – involving the Su-57 stealth fighter – not only signals Moscow’s desire to revitalise defence ties with one of its top arms buyers, but also offers India a timely opportunity to demonstrate that it has “strategic options” as it navigates a balancing act between rival powers.
Moscow’s ambassador to Delhi, Denis Alipov, told Russian state news agency Tass on November 20 that both sides were conducting “intensive work” on the Su-57E platform and that Russia was ready to offer what he described as “unprecedented” localisation.
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Sergey Chemezov, chief executive of Rostec – Russia’s state-owned defence and industrial conglomerate – also told Tass that Moscow was prepared to share Su-57 technology without conditions, citing the close partnership between the two countries.
“We are supplying India with all kinds of military equipment according to its needs and strengthening future cooperation,” he said on November 19.
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Their remarks come ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India next month and follow earlier indications of Moscow’s willingness to deepen collaboration. Reuters reported in February that Russia’s state arms exporter had outlined the possibility of licensed Su-57 production in India with full technology transfer.