HAL to Mass Produce Su-57 Stealth Jets as Russia Hints at Breakthrough, Putin’s Visit Could Boost India’s Military Capabilities
Russian team acknowledges HAL’s readiness for domestic production, deal could be finalised during President Putin’s New Delhi visit.
New Delhi/Moscow: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to begin mass production of the Su-57 stealth fighter after a Russian technical team confirmed India’s capability to manufacture the jets domestically. Russia has offered full technology transfer, including source codes, paving the way for local production once a deal is finalised.
The assessment, jointly prepared by the Sukhoi Design Bureau and other Russian defence institutions, states that HAL already possesses about 50% of the infrastructure needed to produce the Su-57E. The Russian experts visited HAL’s key facilities in Bengaluru, Nasik, and Koraput in September to evaluate technical readiness and manufacturing capabilities.
HAL Ready for Su-57E Production
Sources familiar with the report reveal that HAL has the capacity to produce up to 505 Su-57 stealth jets. The findings were submitted ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s planned visit to New Delhi, with experts suggesting that a production agreement could be announced during his trip.
HAL’s core competencies in engine assembly, avionics integration, and airframe construction, combined with decades of experience producing Su-30MKI fighters, provide a solid foundation for Su-57E manufacturing. The internal review at HAL is now identifying priority areas for investment, including advanced composite materials, radar-absorbing coatings, digital design and simulation technologies, next-generation engine test beds, human resources, supply chain development, and research partnerships.
India’s Aerospace Leap
Defence experts say joint production of the Su-57E would significantly strengthen the Indian Air Force while enhancing India’s position in the global aerospace sector. The Su-57E offers stealth, supersonic cruise, low radar signature, and multi-role capabilities an important addition as India’s fighter fleet faces a gradual decline.
Domestic production of the Su-57E could complement India’s AMCA fifth-generation fighter programme, boosting indigenous capabilities and providing a cost-effective solution compared to acquiring foreign jets like the Rafale.
