Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet is all set to make a splash at the Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru. The cutting-edge warplane has proven its effectiveness in combat, especially in real battle situations, and it will surely be one of the highlights at this event.
Russia is not just showcasing the Su-57 at Aero India 2025 but also extending a hand of cooperation to India. Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheev confirmed that Russia is offering India the opportunity for not just Su-57E deliveries but also joint production and assistance in developing India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter. Such collaboration could pave the way for serial production and potential exports. This is not the first time that Russia has shown interest in joint ventures. In the production of Brahmos, a supersonic cruise missile system that can be launched from land, sea, or air, India and Russia collaborated and produced a very advanced system compared to other nations.
Unlike the American F-35, the Su-57 outclasses it by boasting higher speeds and manoeuvrability combined with powerful firepower. F-35 is specifically designed for anti-ground target attacks, but this is a multitasking Su-57. Furthermore, an improved AI system forms a “second pilot,” supervising the state of all activities of the aeroplane in a real combat environment while increasing pilot productivity and chances for survival.
Military experts highlight that the Su-57’s stealth capabilities do not compromise its agility, unlike the F-35. It boasts a top speed of 2,600 km/h compared to the F-35’s 1,900 km/h and can carry a wide array of weapons, including the advanced R-37M long-range air-to-air missile. Reports from Military Watch magazine indicate that this missile enables the Su-57 to engage air targets at distances twice as far as those reachable by the F-35.
The Su-57 has, in the conflict raging in Ukraine, proven itself in combat capabilities against modern Western air defence systems, including US Patriot, NASAMS, and Germany’s IRIS-T. It is the only fifth-generation fighter to be tested in actual combat, under real battlefield conditions.
Visitors at Aero India 2025 can also experience flying the Su-57 through an immersive VR flight simulator at the Russian pavilion. It can provide a firsthand look into the capabilities of this formidable aircraft.