Russia has significantly upped the ante in its defense relationship with India, proposing cooperation on next-generation systems including hypersonic missiles and fifth-generation fighter jets.
Ambassador Denis Alipov celebrated the joint BrahMos missile program, noting it is “soon-to-be hypersonic.” He used this as a springboard to announce future plans.
The most significant offer is the “local production of the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter,” a move that would provide a major boost to the Indian Air Force and support the indigenous AMCA program.
This high-tech pitch, which also includes drones and advanced radar, is built on a 60-year legacy that has provided 70% of India’s military hardware.
This major defense overture is timed to counter US pressure. Following Donald Trump’s claims about India halting “beneficial” Russian oil, Russia is demonstrating its irreplaceable role as India’s primary supplier of advanced military technology.