Russia Confirms Talks With India On Su-57E Fighters, New Air Defence Systems
Officials from India and Russia are engaged in talks over potential supply of platforms such as Su-57, S-500 and more to India. Image courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
India and Russia are engaged in advanced talks on the potential supply of new categories of military equipment, including fifth-generation fighter aircraft and missile defence systems.
Roman Babushkin, Minister Counsellor of the Russian Embassy in India, confirmed on September 29, 2025 (Monday) that discussions cover the possibility of additional S-400 systems, the newer S-500 platform, and the Su-57E fighter jet.
“We have been involved in a very advanced dialogue on all types of defence cooperation with India,” Babushkin told reporters, as quoted by the Russian state news agency TASS. “We are the only country in the world which is ready to offer India modern weapons, such as fifth-generation fighter jets, with joint production and licensing of components.”
What Did The Russian Embassy Say?
Babushkin emphasised that Russia’s offers are based on technologies refined in recent conflict environments. He also said that Moscow remains the only partner prepared to share advanced systems with India under joint production and licensing arrangements, continuing a precedent established with the Su-30MKI programme.
The remarks are significant as they mark the first public confirmation that export discussions on the Su-57E are taking place with India.
What is the Su-57E?
The Su-57E, developed by Sukhoi, is Russia’s fifth-generation multi-role fighter. Unlike rival export models, the aircraft has been operationally deployed in conflicts such as Syria and Ukraine. Russian officials argue that this combat experience against modern Western-origin air defence and electronic warfare systems strengthens its credentials as a tested platform.
What has been said about the F-35 option?
In August, Igor Korotchenko, Director of the Centre for Analysis of World Arms Trade (CAWAT), cautioned in comments to RIA Novosti that export versions of the US-made F-35 may contain embedded software and hardware vulnerabilities capable of remote activation by Washington. He suggested that such features could allow the United States (US) to restrict or disable aircraft if employed in circumstances contrary to American interests, warning that this could make India “a hostage in the hands of the United States.”
Korotchenko contrasted this with Russia’s record of technology transfer to India, pointing to licensed Su-30MKI production as a model. He also underlined the Su-57E’s combat deployment as a unique selling point in the current fighter market.
Why does this matter for India?
The Russian Embassy’s confirmation signals Moscow’s intent to remain central to India’s future fighter procurement plans, even as New Delhi continues to diversify its defence partnerships. The Su-57E is being framed as both a technological leap and a continuation of the Indo-Russian cooperation model that has underpinned India’s air power for decades.
