Image source: topwar.ru
The Indian Air Force, gradually decommissioning obsolete types of fighters, faced a serious reduction in the fleet of aircraft – below the minimum required, according to military doctrine, staffing of 42 squadrons.
As indicated in the IDRW publication, the acquisition of a 5th-generation fighter, such as the Su-57E, may be a temporary measure until the Indian AMCA program matures, which provides for the creation of a national equivalent.
- it is noted in the edition.
According to the author, the proposed purchase of the Su-57 can be considered as a resumption of joint work carried out as part of the program to create a new FGFA fighter, from which New Delhi withdrew (in fact, by 2016), and Moscow eventually developed the Su-57 itself.:
Unnamed officials from the Russian Federation indicated to the publication that Moscow is ready to offer New Delhi 60-70 Su-57E aircraft.
Image source: topwar.ru
- it is said in the press.
As the author notes, the machines offered to India will be equipped with advanced AL-51F power plants.:
According to him, Russia is increasing its production capacity, aiming to increase the annual production of the Su-57 from 15 to 25 units in the coming years, which will accelerate supplies for the needs of New Delhi.
It is also reported that the Indian parliament has proposed to the government to consider the immediate acquisition of modern 5th generation fighter jets.