Russia, which is India's main weapons supplier, is extending an offer to make the fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jets in India

Cost, technology transfer, and geopolitical factors influence the crucial decision for its air force modernization.

New Delhi's decision on next-generation advanced stealth fighters will have to factor in military data leak concerns, analysts say India faces a decision that could reshape its defence future. Will it embrace the United States' offer to sell its most advanced F-35 stealth fighters,

MKIs, is well-equipped for Su-57 production, potentially reducing costs and expediting delivery. The Su-57 boasts supermaneuverability, stealth, and superior combat survivability, positioning it as a formidable alternative to the F-35.

Russia has offered to make its fifth-generation stealth fighter jet Sukhoi Su-57 in India for the Indian Air Force, a Russian and an Indian official said on Tuesday, as Moscow looks to boost defence ties with New Delhi.

It is to be noted that Donald Trump has made the offer to provide India with US stealth fighter jets at a time when Russia is also keen on selling its Su-57 stealth fighters to India.

United Aircraft Corporation CEO Vadim Badekha says Russia is ready to offer its fifth-generation multirole fighter aircraft to India, tailor-made to the needs of the Indian Air Force.

And, most strikingly, Mr Trump said they were “paving the way” to supply India with the F -35, which is currently restricted to American allies. That only intensified manoeuvring among military officials and arms-makers in Bangalore.