New Delhi: India’s consideration of Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter has drawn a strong warning from former Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria.
He has opposed the idea of buying the Russian stealth fighter as a temporary measure to address the IAF’s immediate requirement for fifth-generation aircraft. He has argued that a small initial purchase could gradually turn into a much larger commitment, making it difficult for the country to keep its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme on schedule.
How a larger Su-57 fleet could affect AMCA
The programme got government approval in March 2024, with the Cabinet Committee on Security clearing Rs 15,000 crore for its design and development. That could reduce the funding and resources available for the AMCA, India’s indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter programme. The AMCA is being developed with advanced stealth features, an internal weapons bay, advanced sensors and other technologies associated with fifth-generation fighters. His position does not mean he has dismissed India’s immediate operational requirements. He has instead stressed the need to ensure that the indigenous programme does not suffer from repeated delays.
Why Bhadauria is wary of small Su-57 purchase
Bhadauria has therefore argued against what he sees as an interim foreign purchase when the government has committed to developing the AMCA. He added, “The government has clearly put their faith in AMCA, and now we need to do everything as a nation to expedite the AMCA. Russia has offered India the Su-57E and has promoted joint production and technology cooperation. The proposal has attracted support from some former Indian military officials, who see the aircraft as a possible bridge until AMCA is ready.
