Bengaluru is gearing up for Aero India 2025, starting Monday. This event is special as it will showcase both Russia’s Su-57 and the US’s F-35 stealth fighters side by side for the first time. The focus will be on the impressive technology behind fifth-generation stealth aircraft, even as India works on its own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is still in the design phase.
During a rehearsal on Saturday, the Su-57 made a significant debut with a full display. In contrast, the F-35, which participated in 2023, only performed a flyover. While both jets are listed for a flying display at the event, it’s unclear if the F-35 will perform a full demonstration. India will showcase a full-scale model of the AMCA.
This gathering is particularly important for India. The country once embarked on a joint fifth-generation fighter aircraft program with Russia, signing an agreement back in 2010. However, disagreements over technology transfer led to India withdrawing from the project in 2018, after investing $300 million.
The presence of the Su-57 and F-35 highlights the significance of fifth-generation fighters in modern air forces. It also opens up opportunities for India to explore potential technology collaborations. The organizer’s statement noted that these aircraft could reignite discussions about future partnerships.
Fifth-generation fighters represent a significant advancement in military aviation, featuring cutting-edge stealth technology, sensor fusion, and capabilities for network-centric warfare. While India develops its AMCA, China has made notable progress, recently introducing two sixth-generation fighters, the Chengdu J-36 and the Shenyang J-50. This rapid development has the potential to shift air power dynamics in Asia.
India’s AMCA, led by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), is still in the design phase, but it received essential approval from the cabinet last year, entailing an investment of Rs 15,000 crore for its first phase. The AMCA is expected to include advanced technology such as AI-driven systems and stealth features. However, key decisions like engine partnerships remain to be finalized, with options including General Electric (GE), French Safran, and British Rolls Royce.
All three engine manufacturers will be at Aero India, hoping to engage with Indian stakeholders. But, like all military deals, any announcements will likely stem from months of prior discussions rather than on-the-spot agreements at the event.
During an Aero India seminar, ADA Director General Jitendra Jadhav stated that the AMCA will be among the most advanced fifth-generation aircraft. It will incorporate stealth materials, network-centric weapon systems, and advanced health monitoring capabilities for its systems and weapons.
The upcoming Aero India 2025, featuring the Su-57 and F-35, not only showcases advancements in stealth technology but also positions India as a key player in global defense partnerships. There is growing interest in India’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft program, with both Russia and the US eager to make their mark. However, formal offers for either the Su-57 or the F-35 have yet to be made.
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