Putin Reiterates Offer to Jointly Develop Su-57 with India

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated an offer for India to jointly develop and produce Russia's Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, signaling a continued push to deepen defense ties between the two nations. The proposal was made during Putin's remarks to global media on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg Economic Forum.

Putin stated that Russia had previously proposed joint development of the aircraft, but Indian officials opted to wait. He emphasized that Russia remains ready to supply the aircraft and collaborate on its further development without any restrictions, a point he extended to cooperation on integrated air defense systems. The offer comes as India pursues its own indigenous fifth-generation fighter programme, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), while also seeking to modernize its air force and address a shrinking squadron strength.

The Su-57, developed by Russia's Sukhoi Design Bureau, is Moscow's first operational stealth fighter, designed for roles including air superiority, ground attack, and electronic warfare. It features supersonic cruising capability, advanced sensors, and long-range strike systems. Russia has reportedly deployed...