NEW DELHI - The Indian Air Force (IAF) is considering buying two to three squadrons of Russian Sukhoi Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets and US F-35 Lightning IIs to make up for the shortage of fighter aircraft. This was reported by the daily Economic Times citing sources. According to information available, the IAF needs to urgently strengthen its fighter capability till the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) becomes available around 2035.

Sources say no formal negotiations have yet been initiated with Russia or the US. The proposal is to be submitted to the Indian government within two months, with the final decision to be taken by the Prime Minister's Office.

The main competitor to the Su-57 and F-35 is considered to be the French machine Dassault Rafale, which is part of an intergovernmental agreement between India and France. This agreement allows for the purchase of up to 114 aircraft, most of which are to be manufactured in Indian factories. Rafale fighters have already taken part in India's military operation Sindoor against Pakistan in May, in which they carried out missile strikes on targets designated as terrorist bases. Pakistan claims to have shot down six Indian aircraft during the operation, including three Rafales, which the Indian side denies.

Currently, the IAF has 31 fighter squadrons of 16-18 machines each. After the retirement of obsolete aircraft MiG-21 in September, the number of squadrons will drop from the required 41 to 29, further increasing pressure to buy new modern fighters.

Suchoj Su-57 is the only fifth-generation fighter aircraft that has demonstrated combat effectiveness against modern air defence systems in realistic conditions. It has a low radar footprint, high manoeuvrability and the ability to carry a wide range of precision-guided weapons. In February 2025, an export model of the Su-57E was unveiled at the Air India International Exhibition.

Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation multirole fighter aircraft that features cutting-edge stealth technology, advanced sensors and the ability to conduct air-to-air and air-to-ground operations. It is produced in three variants: the F-35A (conventional takeoff and landing), the F-35B (short takeoff and vertical landing) and the F-35C (carrier-grade deck aircraft). Its versatility and combat capabilities have made it a key element of the air forces of more than 15 nations around the world.

India's choice between the Su-57, F-35 and Rafale will have a major impact on the military balance in the region and on India's future strategic partnership with major world powers.

gnews.cz - GH