Archive · 3 Aug 2025
India Weighs F-35, Su-57 or AMCA For Air Force Upgrade
India wants new fighter jets, but it's tricky!
They can buy from the US (F-35) or Russia (Su-57).
However, the F-35 is made with all US parts, so connecting it to India's current stuff is tricky.
The Su-57 is an option, but there are delays and other challenges.
India is also developing its own jet, AMCA, but it won't be ready for a while.
For now, India is trying to get more of the existing jets.
India considers American F-35 and Russian Su-57 fighter jets, with the AMCA years away.
The Indian government has not officially expressed preference for either the F-35 or Su-57.
US policy review on releasing F-35 to India was agreed in February 2025 but no negotiations followed.
F-35 integration is challenging given existing systems and infrastructure of the Indian Air Force.
Experts recommend inducting 4th Generation Plus aircraft to address the IAF fighter jet shortage.
- Who
- Indian Air Force, US, Russia, and aircraft manufacturers.
- What
- The Indian Air Force's considerations of procuring fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
- When
- Ongoing, with focus on future acquisitions.
- Where
- India and related to the US and Russia.
- Why
- To modernize the Indian Air Force and address fighter jet shortages.
F-35 Acquisition Challenges
Su-57 Acquisition Challenges
System Integration
F-35 Acquisition Challenges
Integration of a new fighter jet that works with US-made systems.
Su-57 Acquisition Challenges
Integration with existing systems, communication with other platforms, and weapons.
Existing Ecosystem
F-35 Acquisition Challenges
Reliance on an ecosystem of American systems.
Su-57 Acquisition Challenges
Reliance on an ecosystem of other system like Russian systems.
- Current Aircraft
- Su-30MKI, Rafale, Tejas, Mirage 2000, Jaguar
- AMCA Timeline
- Prototype by 2027-28, induction likely no earlier than 2036
- Current Squadron Strength
- 30-31
- Sanctioned Squadron Strength
- 42.5
- Focus
- 4th generation plus and LCA production
