Russia Proposes HAL as Strategic Partner for Su-57E Fighter Jet Exports

Russia has put forward a proposal to involve Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in the international production of its Su-57E fifth-generation fighter jet. The move is aimed at overcoming sanctions-related obstacles and breathing new life into the export prospects of Moscow’s most advanced combat aircraft.

Industry sources indicate that Russia views HAL’s established aerospace manufacturing base as an opportunity to co-produce or assemble Su-57E units outside Russian territory. Such an arrangement could provide flexibility in reaching global buyers, many of whom face restrictions in procuring Russian defence equipment due to ongoing sanctions.

The Su-57, often described as Russia’s answer to the U.S. F-35 and China’s J-20, has so far struggled to achieve major sales despite being promoted as a cutting-edge stealth platform. By bringing India on board, Moscow hopes to give the jet a stronger international push while also leveraging decades of Indo-Russian defence cooperation.

For India, the proposal comes at a time when HAL is focusing on indigenous fighter programs like the Tejas Mk2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). While New Delhi had earlier stepped back from the joint Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project, the new offer could reopen discussions on technology access and industrial participation in stealth fighter development.

Experts believe any decision will hinge on India’s strategic interests, especially balancing self-reliance goals with continued collaboration with Russia. If accepted, the partnership could significantly raise India’s profile in the global combat aircraft market and provide Russia with a much-needed partner to expand the Su-57E’s presence.