Last Updated:November 18, 2025, 14:34 IST
Su-57E meets all established fifth-generation criteria, citing its composite-heavy structure, radar-absorbent coatings, and internal weapons bays designed to enhance stealth.

Russia Unveils Upgraded Su-57E, Offers India Full Tech Transfer Ahead of Putin Visit
As preparations intensify for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s forthcoming visit to India, Moscow has unveiled an upgraded export version of its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter at the Dubai Air Show.
In a clear attempt to reinvigorate its strategic defence partnership with New Delhi, Russia has offered India a comprehensive package centred on the Su-57E, including weapons, licensed production, and what it describes as “unrestricted" transfer of technology.
Russian officials at the air show said the Su-57E is now in serial production and continues to be inducted into the Russian Aerospace Forces. Moscow’s pitch to India includes not only the fighter itself but also long-term maintenance, integration support, and licensed production of more than ten newly showcased air-launched weapons. Russia has also proposed integrating Indian-origin munitions, should New Delhi opt for deeper collaboration.
The offer forms part of a larger proposal to supply Su-57E fighters first and subsequently enable production in India with full technology transfer. Officials emphasised Russia’s six-decade defence-industrial partnership with India, stressing that this proposal reflects its commitment to long-term strategic cooperation.
What we know about Su-57E fighter jets?
Russia claims the Su-57E meets all established fifth-generation criteria, citing its composite-heavy structure, radar-absorbent coatings, and internal weapons bays designed to enhance stealth. The fighter’s design prioritises reduced detectability even during active radar use, a capability Russia says has been validated through real combat operations.
The aircraft features long supersonic endurance, a high-automation cockpit with AI-assisted decision support, and an integrated countermeasure suite. The onboard AESA radar reportedly has a detection range of 240 kilometres, complemented by an IRST system and omnidirectional optical sensors for wide-area situational awareness.
Over 10 new air-launched weapons were displayed alongside the jet, covering long-range air-to-air missiles, precision-guided munitions, and standoff strike systems.
Moscow’s proposal also revives elements of the earlier Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) programme, offering India access to advanced technologies including engines, flight software upgrades, and long-term co-development pathways.
With emphasis on “unrestricted" technology transfer, Russia is positioning the Su-57E as a foundation for deeper collaboration at a time when New Delhi continues to seek high-end capability while maintaining strategic autonomy.
Earlier this year, India officially rejected the offer to procure the US F-35 stealth fighter jets following additional trade tariffs on India.
Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public...Read More
Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior Sub‑Editor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influenced public...
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Delhi, India, India
First Published:
November 18, 2025, 14:34 IST
News world Russia Offers India Su-57E Jets With ‘Unrestricted’ Tech Transfer Ahead Of Putin’s December Visit
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