Published: 22 February 2026India TV NewsGovernance
India-Russia Su-57 Technical Talks Reported After Rafale MRFA AoN
After the Defence Acquisition Council accorded Acceptance of Necessity for Rafale MRFA, India and Russia are reported to be holding technical discussions on possible joint production of the fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57E; the Indian side has not confirmed a procurement decision. The Su-57 is described as featuring stealth capability, supercruise ability, and advanced AESA radar.
The IAF currently operates Su-30MKI, Rafale, MiG-29, Mirage 2000 and indigenous Tejas Mk-1A. India had earlier withdrawn from the FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft) joint development programme with Russia in 2018 over concerns about stealth characteristics, development timelines and engine-related issues.
Mains angle
Q: Discuss the strategic considerations guiding India's evaluation of the Russian Sukhoi-57 as a fifth-generation stealth fighter, in light of its 2018 withdrawal from the FGFA programme and existing IAF fleet composition.
Answer (50 words):
After clearing the Rafale deal with France, India is evaluating a fifth-generation stealth fighter procurement, with Russia's Sukhoi-57 emerging as preferred due to stealth, supercruise and AESA radar. The Indian Air Force currently operates Su-30MKI, Rafale, MiG-29, Mirage 2000 and Tejas Mk-1A; India had exited the FGFA joint programme in 2018.
6-axis classification
CoverageInternationalSubjectScience & TechnologyExamBasic Computer Instructor · CET Graduation · CET Senior Secondary · EO/RO · LDC · Mahila Supervisor · Patwar · PTI · RAS · REET · RPSC SI · School Lecturer · Senior Computer Instructor · Senior Teacher · UPSC · Vanpal · BothSourceIndia TV News
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Linked questionMedium
India's Current Account Deficit in Q1 FY26 was what percentage of GDP?
Explanation · Correct answer DIndia's CAD narrowed to USD 2.4 billion, or 0.2% of GDP, in Q1 FY26.
Frequently asked questions
Why is India considering the **Sukhoi-57 stealth fighter** for its **fifth-generation fighter** programme?
India is evaluating the **Sukhoi-57 (Su-57)** as its first choice for a **fifth-generation stealth fighter**, attracted by Russia's offer of co-production, technology transfer, and preferential pricing.
What are the key features of the **Sukhoi-57** that make it suitable for **India's Air Force**?
The **Sukhoi Su-57** offers **stealth capability, supercruise, supermanoeuvreability, AESA radar, and internal weapons carriage** — fifth-generation features that would significantly enhance **Indian Air Force** capabilities.
Is the **Su-57** Russia's most advanced fighter aircraft?
Yes, the **Sukhoi Su-57** is Russia's only operational **fifth-generation stealth fighter**, developed by **Sukhoi Design Bureau** and manufactured by **KnAAPO** in Komsomolsk-on-Amur.
What is the **AMCA** and how does it relate to India's **Sukhoi-57 procurement**?
**AMCA** (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) is India's own **fifth-generation fighter development programme**; the **Su-57 procurement** would bridge the capability gap until AMCA enters service in the 2030s.
What are the geopolitical implications of India buying the **Russian Sukhoi-57**?
Procuring the **Russian Su-57** could strain **India-US relations** given US sanctions (CAATSA) on Russian defence purchases, requiring careful diplomatic navigation to protect **India's strategic partnerships**.
