In a significant development for India's defense capabilities, Russia has made a comprehensive offer for complete technology transfer of its advanced Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft. The proposal was formally announced during the Dubai Air Show 2025 by senior Russian defense officials, marking a new chapter in the long-standing strategic partnership between the two nations.
Historic Defense Partnership Strengthens
Sergey Chemezov, CEO of Russian state-owned defense conglomerate Rostec, emphasized the enduring nature of Russia-India defense relations during his interactions with reporters. He recalled how Russia continued weapons supplies to India even during periods of international sanctions, ensuring the country's security needs were always met.
"India and Russia have been partners for many years. Even when India was under sanctions, we supplied the country with weapons to ensure its security," Chemezov told ANI. "Today, we continue the same approach as in previous years, supplying India with whatever military equipment it needs and ensuring our mutual interests in developing cooperation."
Comprehensive Technology Transfer Package
The Russian offer goes beyond mere aircraft sales, proposing a complete technology transfer that would enable substantial local manufacturing in India. According to officials from Rosoboronexport, Russia's state arms exporter, the package includes several groundbreaking components:
- Full technology transfer covering advanced systems including engines, optics, and AESA radar
- Access to fifth-generation technologies including artificial intelligence elements and stealth capabilities
- License production of air weapons for future generation aircraft
- Integration capability for Indian-made weapons systems
- Joint development of a two-seat modification of the Su-57E or FGFA
Vadim Badekha, Director General of United Aircraft Corporation (a Rostec subsidiary), confirmed that all technical demands and concerns raised by the Indian side regarding the Su-57 have been viewed as "completely acceptable." He emphasized that both sides remain "deeply" engaged in ongoing discussions.
Strategic Timing and High-Level Engagements
The technology transfer proposal comes amid increased diplomatic activity between New Delhi and Moscow. The announcement coincides with several high-level meetings, including one between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of the Russian leader's scheduled visit to India in December.
During his Moscow visit, EAM Jaishankar also met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and attended the SCO head of government summit. Meanwhile, in New Delhi, Nikolai Patrushev, Chairman of the Maritime Board of the Russian Federation, called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 18.
The Russian proposal specifically addresses India's concerns about supply chain security, offering a pathway that ensures "a gradual increase in the level of license production" and provides long-term scope for upgrades through improvements in software and other systems.
A senior Rosoboronexport representative highlighted that the cooperation demonstrates "the reliability and transparency of the Russian side to technology transfer without restrictions and possible sanctions like other countries do." This assurance positions Russia as a more reliable partner compared to other nations that might impose technology transfer restrictions.
The Su-57 technology transfer offer represents one of the most significant defense collaboration proposals in recent years, potentially transforming India's air combat capabilities while strengthening the strategic autonomy that has characterized the India-Russia relationship for over six decades.
