India To Hold Back On Large-Scale Su-57 Orders Pending Until Superior Su-57M1 Variant Becomes Available

India is reportedly set to delay major orders for Russia's Su-57 fifth-generation fighter until the enhanced Su-57M1 variant becomes available, according to this international report.

Confirmation from Rosoboronexport that multiple countries, including Algeria and Iran, have placed orders for the aircraft was followed by reports from Indian sources that the Defence Ministry has also finalised contracts.

This development comes after the Ministry confirmed in January 2026 that licence production talks had reached an advanced technical stage, a year after initial discussions were acknowledged.

Local reports suggested that India was considering the near-term procurement of 40 Su-57s to strengthen frontline units before moving to larger-scale licensed production once the Su-57M1 becomes available.

According to informed sources, the Indian Air Force intends to procure the Su-57M1 variant under a licence production deal, while acquiring current variants directly from Russia in the interim. This mirrors India’s earlier approach with the Su-30MK fighters in the late 1990s, which were purchased until the more advanced Su-30MKI became available for local production in the early 2000s.

Even the baseline Su-57 would represent the most advanced fighter in Indian service, providing valuable operational experience for pilots and maintenance crews ahead of the introduction of the Su-57M1.

The Su-57M1 is expected to integrate the AL-51F-1 engine, which will place it ahead of the American F-22 and potentially on par with China’s J-20 in terms of thrust. The new engine will also reduce maintenance demands and improve availability.

Russian sources report that the Su-57M1 will feature a widened airframe for greater lift and improved supersonic stability, a flatter fuselage with internal weapon bays for enhanced stealth, and a more advanced primary sensor to replace the N036 radar—the first AESA radar fitted to a Russian fighter. 

These upgrades are expected to significantly narrow the capability gap between Indian and Chinese top-tier units, while providing a decisive advantage over Pakistan’s J-10C fighters.

The Su-57M1 is also expected to serve as the foundation for a heavily customised Indian variant, integrating local subsystems and potentially mirroring the Su-30MKI’s long production run with increasing indigenous input.

In June 2025, Russia reportedly offered India unprecedented access to the fighter’s source code, while in December 2025 Dmitry Shugayev of the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation suggested a fully joint programme could be pursued.

This would allow India a greater degree of technological ownership than with the Su-30MKI. Using the Su-57M1 as the basis for customisation rather than the baseline model is seen as a more effective approach.

With the U.S. F-35 and Chinese fifth generation fighters excluded for political reasons, the Su-57 remains India’s only near-term option for acquiring fifth generation aircraft.

This is particularly important given the delays in the indigenous AMCA stealth fighter program, which is now projected to deliver an operational fighter only in the 2040s. Much like the Su-30MKI, of which India procured over 270 units, acquisitions of the Su-57 are expected to be extensive.

A customised Su-57M1 variant with Indian avionics and potentially a second seat could even compete with the baseline Su-57 on export markets, with joint technology ownership offering significant opportunities for India’s defence industry.

Agencies

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India’s Fighter Shortage Revives Debate On Russian MUM-T Model With Su-57 Stealth Jet

India’s continuing interest in the Russian Su-57 stealth fighter has revived debate about whether the Indian Air Force could adopt Russia’s Manned-Unmanned Teaming model rather than the American approach.

The IAF is grappling with a severe fighter squadron shortage, operating around 30 squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42. Delays in indigenous programs, particularly the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, have forced New Delhi to consider stop-gap measures, including the Su-57.

Despite official claims of not actively pursuing the deal, reports suggest the option remains on the table.

The Su-57 two-seater variant is central to Russia’s MUM-T concept. In this model, the pilot flies the aircraft in conventional aerial combat while the rear-seat occupant acts as a mission commander, controlling a formation of unmanned aerial vehicles.

This arrangement allows the commander to direct drones to patrol, reconnoitre, attack, defend, or provide cover for ground forces, while the pilot ensures the fighter itself remains secure. In extreme scenarios, both human operators can act in tandem, with the pilot engaging enemy aircraft and the commander simultaneously deploying drones without being hindered by the jet’s manoeuvres.

Manned-Unmanned Teaming itself refers to the integration of human-operated platforms with unmanned systems to enhance battlefield effectiveness.

It improves situational awareness, decision-making, and reduces the risk of personnel losses. In aerial warfare, MUM-T generally involves pairing manned fighters with Collaborative Combat Aircraft drones, also known as Loyal Wingmen. These drones range from small reconnaissance UAVs to larger strike and electronic warfare platforms, offering flexible mission-tailored solutions.

The United States and Russia have taken divergent paths in developing MUM-T. The US relies on single-seat fighters such as the F-35, where advanced artificial intelligence systems are tasked with managing drone formations.

This makes AI central to the American model, but also raises costs due to the complexity of military-grade autonomy. Russia, by contrast, places human control at the core of its system.

The Su-57’s rear-seat commander is expected to simultaneously control four to eight S-70 Okhotnik-B stealth drones, with human judgement guiding the formation rather than AI alone.

This distinction highlights the choice facing the IAF. The American model offers cutting-edge autonomy but at higher expense and dependence on AI. The Russian model provides a more human-centric approach, potentially aligning with India’s interest in a two-seat Su-57 variant customised with Indian avionics.

With the IAF’s squadron shortfall and delays in indigenous projects, adopting Russia’s MUM-T framework could offer a practical interim solution, while also opening pathways for future collaboration in unmanned combat systems.

Agencies

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Kaveri Thrusts Ahead: GTRE Targets 90 kN Power For Future Indian Fighters

The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) has embarked on an ambitious project to develop the new and more powerful Kaveri engine. This initiative marks a significant step forward in India's indigenous aero-engine capabilities, building on decades of research and development.

GTRE's immediate priority remains the certification of the existing GTX-35VS Kaveri engine. This foundational effort is essential to validate the engine's design and performance under rigorous standards before advancing to newer variants.

Flight tests for the GTX-35VS Kaveri engine are scheduled in the near future. These trials will comprehensively assess the engine's performance and capabilities, providing critical data on thrust output, fuel efficiency, reliability, and integration with airframes.

Successful certification and flight testing will pave the way for the much-anticipated Kaveri engine. This successor promises to be even more advanced, incorporating cutting-edge materials, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced thermal management systems.

The Kaveri engine is designed to deliver 55–59 kN of thrust without afterburner. This dry thrust range represents a substantial upgrade over previous iterations, enabling superior sustained performance in diverse mission profiles.

With afterburner engaged, the Kaveri will achieve up to 90 kN of thrust. This peak output ensures exceptional acceleration, climb rates, and supersonic capabilities, making it a versatile powerplant for modern combat aircraft.

Such thrust levels are considered crucial for India's future fighter jet projects. Emerging platforms like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) demand high-performance engines to match global standards in stealth, agility, and multi-role operations.

GTRE's work on Kaveri aligns with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence. By reducing reliance on foreign engines like the GE F414, it bolsters self-reliance in critical aerospace technologies.

The original Kaveri engine, developed since the 1980s under the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas program, faced challenges with thrust shortfalls and weight issues. Lessons from these have informed the redesign for greater efficiency and power density.

Recent collaborations, including with Safran of France, have accelerated progress through technology transfers in single-crystal blade manufacturing and advanced coatings. These partnerships enhance GTRE's expertise without compromising indigenous core development.

Flight testing of the GTX-35VS on a modified Tejas Mk1 or flying testbed is imminent, expected within the next 12–18 months. Positive outcomes could lead to in-service integration by the early 2030s.

The Kaveri's 90 kN wet thrust positions it competitively against engines like the EJ200 (used in Eurofighter Typhoon) or RD-33 (in MiG-29). This will enable India to field fifth-generation fighters with domestic powerplants.

Beyond fighters, the engine's scalability could support unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) and trainer aircraft. Its modular design allows for future upgrades, such as variable cycle technology for better fuel economy.

GTRE's Bangalore facility, with its advanced test cells and simulation labs, is at the heart of this endeavour. Supported by DRDO and private partners like Godrej Aerospace, production scaling is underway.

Challenges persist, including achieving consistent high-temperature performance and life-cycle costs. However, GTRE's iterative approach, informed by over 1,600 hours of ground testing on prior Kaveri variants, instils confidence.

This development comes amid India's expanding defence budget and focus on indigenous manufacturing. With HAL and private firms gearing up, Kaveri could power hundreds of jets, creating a robust ecosystem.

GTRE's dual-track strategy—certifying the GTX-35VS while advancing Kaveri —heralds a new era for Indian aviation power. Its 55–59 kN dry and 90 kN wet thrust will be pivotal for next-gen fighters, securing strategic autonomy.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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India’s AMCA To Be The Most Cost‑Efficient Fifth‑Generation Stealth Jet, Set To Redefine Airpower By 2035

India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) represents a bold step towards establishing a cost‑efficient fifth‑generation stealth fighter tailored to meet the Indian Air Force’s requirements by 2035.

Conceived as a twin‑engine platform with medium weight of approximately 25 tons, the AMCA is designed to incorporate advanced sensor fusion, artificial intelligence‑enabled systems, and internal weapons bays to ensure superior survivability in contested environments.

Its deep‑strike role is central to India’s strategic posture, with prototypes expected to emerge between 2028 and 2029.

The program is distinguished by its emphasis on indigenous content, targeting between 75 and 90 per cent localisation. This aligns directly with the national vision of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” reinforcing self‑reliance in defence technology.

The inclusion of internal weapons bays and advanced sensors underscores the aircraft’s stealth credentials, while AI‑enabled systems are intended to enhance pilot effectiveness and resilience against electronic warfare.

Cost efficiency is a defining feature of the AMCA project. Unlike many global fifth‑generation programmes burdened by spiralling research and development costs, India’s approach leverages public‑private partnerships to distribute investment and reduce expenditure.

This model is expected to deliver a platform that is both technologically advanced and financially sustainable, positioning the AMCA as one of the most cost‑effective fifth‑generation fighters under development worldwide.

The timeline is ambitious yet carefully structured. The first prototype is scheduled for rollout in 2028–2029, with the maiden flight planned for 2029. Full induction into the Indian Air Force is targeted for 2034–2035, ensuring that the aircraft enters service in time to counter evolving regional threats. 

Production numbers are projected at around 126 to 150 aircraft, providing the IAF with a substantial fleet of advanced fighters.

Engine development is central to the program’s evolution. The MK-1 variant will be powered by GE414 engines, offering proven reliability and performance. The MK-2 variant, however, is expected to feature a more powerful co‑developed engine, reflecting India’s determination to advance indigenous propulsion capabilities.

This phased approach ensures that the AMCA remains operationally viable while progressively enhancing its performance envelope.

Strategically, the AMCA is intended to serve as a cornerstone of India’s airpower modernisation. Equipped with advanced indigenous missiles such as the ASTRA MK-2 and MK-3, the aircraft will be capable of countering regional adversaries with precision and reach. Its stealth design, deep‑strike capability, and integration of cutting‑edge systems will provide the IAF with a decisive edge in future conflicts.

Oversight of the program is entrusted to a top‑level committee, tasked with accelerating development and finalising manufacturing partnerships with the private sector. This governance structure reflects the urgency of the project and the importance of aligning industrial capacity with national defence objectives.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Russia Touts Sukhoi Su-57 Export Momentum, But Algeria Remains The Only Likely Operator

Russia’s state arms exporter ROSOBORONEXPORT announced that it had signed export agreements involving the Sukhoi Su-57 during the DSA-2026 defence exhibition in Kuala Lumpur.

However, the company did not disclose the number of aircraft involved, the identity of the customers, or delivery timelines, leaving the scope of these deals unclear.

The export variant, designated the Su-57E, has reportedly attracted interest from multiple countries, with Rosoboronexport claiming that its customer base is expanding. Yet, no new operators have been officially identified, and the lack of transparency has fuelled speculation about the program’s progress.

Algeria remains the only widely cited foreign user of the Su-57, though neither Moscow nor Algiers has confirmed deliveries. Observers have reported Su-57 activity in Algerian airspace since late 2025, suggesting that the aircraft may have entered service without formal announcement. This has reinforced the perception that Algeria is the first export operator, even if official confirmation is absent.

Previous reports indicated that Algeria could acquire around 14 aircraft under a deal discussed since 2019. The status of that agreement has remained uncertain for years, with Russian officials repeatedly referring to an unnamed foreign customer without providing details. Production constraints and the need to tailor systems for export clients have been cited as factors affecting delivery timelines.

Other countries often mentioned as potential buyers include India and several Southeast Asian operators. Some of these markets have explored unconventional financing structures, including barter-based arrangements, due to budgetary constraints. Such mechanisms highlight the challenges of securing high-value defence acquisitions in regions with limited fiscal flexibility.

Russia’s push to expand exports of the Su-57 reflects both economic necessity and strategic ambition. The program has faced slow production rates, with the Komsomolsk-on-Amur plant struggling to meet domestic demand.

By promoting the Su-57E abroad, United Aircraft Corporation and Rosoboronexport are attempting to secure additional revenue streams that could help sustain production lines and justify scaling up output. Export deals, even if modest in scale, provide financial breathing space and political signalling value.

Algeria’s reported acquisition of around 14 aircraft, though never officially confirmed, is significant. If true, it marks the first foreign entry into Russia’s fifth-generation fighter ecosystem. Algeria’s interest underscores Moscow’s enduring defence ties with North Africa, where Russian equipment has long been a staple.

The discreet nature of the deal, with sightings of Su-57s in Algerian airspace preceding any formal announcement, suggests a deliberate strategy of opacity—allowing Russia to claim export success without exposing itself to scrutiny over delivery timelines or production bottlenecks.

India’s name frequently surfaces in discussions of potential Su-57 exports, though New Delhi’s past withdrawal from the FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft) project highlights the complexities of cooperation.

India’s defence procurement is shaped by budgetary constraints, competing priorities, and a desire for technology transfer. Russia’s willingness to explore unconventional financing structures, including barter-based arrangements, reflects an effort to accommodate such realities. Yet, India’s pursuit of indigenous fighter programs, such as the AMCA, complicates the likelihood of a major Su-57 purchase.

Southeast Asia represents another potential market, where countries seek advanced airpower to balance regional dynamics. However, affordability remains a barrier. Russia’s openness to flexible financing indicates recognition of these constraints, but the absence of confirmed deals suggests that interest has yet to translate into firm commitments.

Strategically, Russia’s promotion of the Su-57E is about more than revenue. It is a bid to demonstrate that Moscow remains a credible supplier of cutting-edge combat aircraft despite Western sanctions, economic pressure, and competition from US and Chinese fifth-generation fighters. By securing even one or two export customers, Russia can claim legitimacy for the Su-57 program and reinforce its image as a global defence player.

At the same time, the opacity surrounding customers and delivery schedules reflects vulnerabilities. Production bottlenecks, the need to tailor systems for export, and the risk of overpromising all constrain Russia’s ability to scale exports quickly.

The Su-57’s export narrative thus serves as both a marketing tool and a geopolitical signal, projecting strength while masking industrial fragility.

In essence, the Su-57 export push is a balancing act: Russia seeks to leverage limited production capacity to secure prestige and revenue, while navigating the realities of constrained budgets among potential buyers.

Algeria’s quiet adoption, if confirmed, provides Moscow with a foothold. Expanding beyond that will require overcoming both financial and industrial hurdles, as well as convincing sceptical partners that the Su-57 can deliver on its promise of fifth-generation capability.

For United Aircraft Corporation, expanding exports of the Su-57 is seen as a potential revenue stream to support increased output at the Komsomolsk-on-Amur plant.

Production of the aircraft remains limited, and the program has faced slow manufacturing rates. Foreign sales could help sustain scale-up efforts, even as domestic orders continue to dominate the backlog.

Agencies

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India–US Seal Landmark Jet Engine Pact: HAL And GE Aerospace Finalise Technology Transfer For IAF Fleet Expansion

India and the United States have reached a major milestone in defence cooperation with the conclusion of technical discussions between GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) on the co-production of fighter jet engines, reported ET Defence.

The agreement, centred on the advanced F414 engines, is expected to lead to a formal contract later this year. This development is seen as a significant boost to the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has been grappling with a declining fighter squadron strength and urgently requires modernisation to prepare for potential two-front challenges involving China and Pakistan.

In parallel, GE Aerospace has signed a contract with the IAF to establish a depot facility for F404 engines, which currently power the TEJAS Jets.

This facility is expected to strengthen the operational backbone of the air force by ensuring timely maintenance and support. Rita Flaherty, vice president of sales and business development for defence and systems at GE Aerospace, highlighted that the most complex part of the technical discussions—covering deep technology transfer for the F414 engines—has now been successfully concluded.

Flaherty described the agreement as a landmark step, emphasising that it will enable India to acquire manufacturing technology for these powerful engines, thereby advancing its mission of self-reliance.

She noted that GE holds about 80% of the intellectual property rights for the F414 engine, with the remainder belonging to other US suppliers. Stressing the rarity of such advanced capabilities, she remarked that only a handful of companies worldwide can produce such engines, and India will now join that select group.

The next stage will involve commercial negotiations, which may take time given the recent rise in global component prices. Once the contract is signed, HAL will establish a manufacturing facility in India with GE’s assistance, aiming to make it operational within two years. Under the agreement, 99 engines will be produced domestically to power the TEJAS MK-2 variant.

The IAF has projected a requirement for 120–130 TEJAS MK-2 fighters, which could expand the order size beyond the initial 99 engines. Furthermore, the first two squadrons of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) are also expected to be powered by the F414 engine.

Looking ahead, GE has expressed interest in collaborating with India on the development of higher-thrust engines in the 120kN class for next-generation fighter aircraft.

On the subject of F404 engines for the TEJAS MK-1A, which have faced delays, Flaherty confirmed that the sixth engine has arrived in India and assured that GE remains committed to timely deliveries without compromising safety or quality.

The new depot facility for F404 engines will be owned, operated, and maintained by the IAF, with GE providing technical expertise, training, support staff, and ensuring the supply of spares and specialised equipment.

ET Defence

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India Fast-Tracks AMCA Refuelling Probe Development

According to recent reports released by Alpha Defence, a significant vendor meeting was convened to finalise the development details for the refuelling probe of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

This component is a critical piece of hardware for the indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter, ensuring its operational range and endurance through mid-air refuelling capabilities.

During the negotiation process, the timeline for the project became a primary point of discussion. The involved vendors initially put forward a proposal that would have seen the development of the refuelling probe take approximately 60 months. Such a duration was viewed as potentially problematic given the overall momentum of the fighter program.

However, following intensive discussions and a revised agreement, the development cycle was successfully negotiated down to 36 months. This timeline will commence officially from the date the contract is formally signed. This reduction represents a substantial acceleration of the engineering and manufacturing phases for this specific subsystem.

The move to shorten the production schedule is part of a much broader, high-priority effort to adhere to the stringent development and testing milestones set for the AMCA. As India’s premier stealth fighter project, the program is under significant pressure to remain on track with its complex technical requirements.

Maintaining this accelerated pace is essential as the first prototype roll-out for the AMCA is currently anticipated within the 2026–2027 timeframe.

By securing a faster turnaround for essential components like the refuelling probe, the project managers aim to ensure that the aircraft is fully equipped for its initial flight trials and subsequent rigorous testing phases.

Agencies

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Record Production And Exports Propel India Towards Total Defence Autonomy, Declares Defence Minister

AMCA stealth jet to showcase India's tech prowress

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has projected a future where India achieves total self-reliance in the defence sector, positioning the nation among the world's most prominent global powers.

Speaking at an event in Lucknow dedicated to the felicitation of war heroes and Veer Naris, the minister expressed immense confidence in the current trajectory of the country's military-industrial capabilities.

The Union Minister provided significant statistical evidence of this growth, noting that domestic defence production reached a milestone of ₹1.51 lakh Crores during the 2024-25 fiscal year. This record-breaking figure underscores the increasing capacity of Indian industries to meet the requirements of the armed forces internally.

In addition to domestic achievements, Singh highlighted a remarkable surge in international trade, with defence exports hitting an all-time high of ₹38,424 Crores in the 2025-26 financial year. He described these achievements as foundational elements of a broader mission to build an empowered and autonomous India that no longer relies on foreign imports for its security needs.

The minister specifically pointed to the strategic role of Uttar Pradesh in this transformation, noting that Lucknow has been designated as a major Defence Node alongside the cities of Agra and Kanpur. This regional focus is central to the government's plan to decentralise and boost manufacturing across various hubs.

A key highlight mentioned during the address was the successful production of BrahMos missiles within Lucknow. Singh proudly stated that the very first batch of these Lucknow-made missiles has already been delivered to the Indian Army, marking a tangible success for the city’s industrial contributions.

Furthermore, the minister revealed that the city is becoming a bustling centre for military manufacturing, with numerous small and large-scale factories currently being established.

These facilities are dedicated to producing a wide range of defence equipment, further cementing Lucknow's status as a critical player in the national security infrastructure.

The felicitation ceremony was also attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Following the formal proceedings, both leaders attended the Shaurya Smriti laser light and sound show in the state capital, a programme designed to honour the bravery and memory of the nation’s soldiers.

ANI

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The Stealth Gambit: Moscow Offers India 36–40 Su-57 Stealth Fighters With HAL Co-Production And Tech Transfer

Citing a report from TASS and in a significant move to bolster bilateral military ties, Russia has extended a formal proposal to supply India with approximately two squadrons of its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

This offer comes at a time when India is navigating its long-term aerial strategy, with the potential deliveries of these advanced jets slated to begin between 2027 and 2028. If the deal proceeds, the full induction of the fleet into the Indian Air Force would likely be completed by the 2030–31 period.

Current reports suggest that the Indian government is in the process of evaluating the offer, which would encompass between 36 and 40 aircraft. The acquisition is being viewed as a possible interim solution to enhance India’s combat capabilities and bridge the technological gap while the nation continues to develop its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program.

This would allow the air force to maintain a sophisticated edge in the region during the AMCA's transition from blueprint to operational reality.

The Russian proposal outlines a phased increase in production to ensure that the delivery timelines are met, with Moscow aiming to scale up its manufacturing output significantly over the next few years. At present, the Su-57 units are equipped with AL-41F1 engines.

However, the offer also hints at future technical evolutions, including the integration of next-generation powerplants that would further enhance the aircraft's performance and stealth characteristics.

A pivotal aspect of the proposal is the inclusion of substantial domestic participation, a move that aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in the defence sector. There is a possibility that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) could support up to 50% of the production infrastructure, provided a local manufacturing arrangement is formalised. This would ensure that a significant portion of the project's value and technical expertise remains within the Indian industrial ecosystem.

Despite the strategic allure of the Su-57, New Delhi is expected to weigh several critical factors before committing to the deal. High on the list of priorities are the total cost of the acquisition, the depth of technology transfer being offered, and the potential impact on India’s long-term strategic autonomy. 

Ensuring that the deal does not lead to over-dependence on a single foreign supplier remains a core consideration for Indian policymakers.

As it stands, these discussions are still in their infancy. While the proposal represents a major development in Indo-Russian defence cooperation, no final decision has been announced by the Indian government. The coming months will likely see rigorous technical and financial assessments as India decides whether the "Felon" fits into its vision for a future-ready air force.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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India Develops Folding‑Fin ASTRA MK-2 To Boost Stealth Firepower For AMCA And Ghatak Combat UAV

India is advancing its stealth fighter and combat drone programs with the Defence Research and Development Organisation developing a specialised version of the ASTRA MK-2 air‑to‑air missile, reported Zee News.

This new variant incorporates folding fins, enabling it to fit inside the internal weapons bays of future stealth platforms such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft and the Ghatak unmanned combat aerial vehicle.

The project has been prioritised because stealth aircraft rely on carrying weapons internally, as external carriage increases radar visibility and undermines stealth advantages. By redesigning the ASTRA MK-2, India aims to preserve stealth while ensuring sufficient weapon capacity for combat missions.

Stealth aircraft depend on smooth outer surfaces to reduce radar detection, but conventional missiles with fixed fins occupy more space, limiting internal storage. To overcome this, DRDO engineers have created a spring‑loaded folding fin system.

The fins remain folded against the missile body inside the aircraft and automatically deploy once launched, stabilising the missile and guiding it towards its target. This innovation saves space without compromising performance and allows stealth aircraft to carry more missiles internally.

The folding‑fin design is expected to significantly enhance the AMCA’s internal firepower. Earlier estimates suggested the aircraft could carry four ASTRA MK-2 missiles internally, but the compact design now allows up to six.

This increase enables pilots to engage multiple targets while maintaining stealth. The Aeronautical Development Agency is working with DRDO to refine the dimensions of the AMCA’s internal bay to accommodate the modified missile.

High‑speed separation tests conducted in late 2025 confirmed the missile could be safely released at supersonic speeds without endangering the aircraft, marking a crucial step in integration.

The same technology is being adapted for the Ghatak unmanned combat aerial vehicle, also known as the Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft.

This stealth flying‑wing drone is designed for deep‑strike missions, and the modified ASTRA MK-2 will be carried internally, allowing the drone to defend itself against enemy aircraft while operating in hostile airspace.

Integration work accelerated after the Defence Acquisition Council approved the acquisition of four squadrons of the drone in March 2026.

Beyond its folding fins, the ASTRA MK-2 offers enhanced combat performance. It employs a dual‑pulse solid rocket motor, providing a strike range of 160 to 200 kilometres. The second pulse activates during the final phase of flight, delivering additional speed and energy to intercept manoeuvring targets.

This improves its ability to counter evasive aircraft. The missile also features a domestically developed Ku‑band active radar seeker, reinforcing India’s push for indigenous defence technologies.

The folding‑fin concept is also shaping the development of the ASTRA MK-3, known as Gandiva, which is being designed specifically for stealth platforms. This missile uses a Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet propulsion system, successfully flight‑tested in April 2026 at Chandipur.

The system allows thrust modulation during flight, sustaining supersonic speeds up to Mach 4.5. With a range of 300 to 350 kilometres, the ASTRA MK-3 is expected to target high‑value assets such as airborne early warning aircraft and mid‑air refuellers.

Together, the folding‑fin ASTRA MK-2 and the forthcoming ASTRA MK-3 represent a major step in India’s drive to build stealth‑compatible missile systems.

These innovations will strengthen future air combat and deep‑strike capabilities, ensuring that India’s next‑generation platforms can operate effectively in contested environments while maintaining stealth advantages.

Zee News

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India Hardwires Sovereignty Into ₹1 Lakh Crore Rafale Deal With Strategic Integration Clause To Ensure Integration of DRDO Missiles With Rafale Jets

Key Takeaways

MoD to issue Rafale RFP in May 2026, embedding ICD Clause for ₹1 Lakh Crore+ deal

Mandates Astra, Rudram integration on 114 Rafales, enabling DRDO autonomy

DAC clearance in Feb 2026; 40-50% local content, domestic production

Strategic win for Atmanirbhar Bharat, contrasting past retrofits

The Ministry of Defence stands poised to revolutionise the Indian Air Force through a substantial upgrade involving Rafale aircraft. The government prepares to issue the Request for Proposal (RFP) to Dassault Aviation as early as this May 2026.

In a significant strategic shift, India is insisting on a "hardwired" International Control Design (ICD) clause within the contract. This specific provision ensures that indigenous Indian weapons systems, including the Astra and Rudram missiles, can be integrated into the French aircraft without technical or legal restrictions from the manufacturer.

This ICD Clause ensures seamless integration of indigenous missiles, prominently Astra and Rudram, directly into the French Rafale platforms. Such provisions empower DRDO engineers to independently test, validate, and certify homegrown systems without reliance on foreign source code.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the procurement of 114 Rafale multi-role fighters on 12 February 2026, paving the way for this government-to-government deal valued at approximately $36 billion or ₹3 Lakh Crore in broader approvals.

Negotiations emphasise 40-50% indigenous content, with around 90 jets slated for manufacture in India via partnerships like Dassault and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This aligns with Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

The ICD provision marks a departure from prior deals, such as the 36 Rafale contract, where integrations of Astra Mk1, Rudram-1, and SAAW required separate agreements. Now, indigenous weapons form core contract elements.

Astra, a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, and Rudram, an anti-radiation missile for SEAD missions with 150 km range, enhance Rafale's capabilities across IAF and Indian Navy's Rafale-M fleets.

Dassault Aviation commits to facilitating these integrations per Inter-Governmental Agreements (IGA), including local fuselage production by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) by 2028 and MRO facilities by Safran and DAMROI (Dassault Aviation MRO India).

This Dassault vs. DRDO dynamic underscores India's strategic autonomy, reducing dependence on foreign munitions and positioning indigenous systems for export, as seen with interest from nations like Greece.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh affirmed that integration access remains non-negotiable, granting API-level or ICD-level flexibility for Astra family and Rudram series from outset.

The push avoids full source code demands—where 30-40% of Rafale's value resides—but secures operational independence via open architecture interfaces.

Recent pacts, including India-France 114 Rafale terms and EU Security Agreement, bolster this framework amid MRFA program advancements.

As the Indian Air Force and Navy look toward future capabilities, the government remains committed to domestic programs like the TEJAS MK-2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). These projects, alongside the development of long-range missiles, represent the long-term vision for India’s aerial dominance.

This clause not only boosts IAF deterrence with long-range strikes but fortifies India's aerospace ecosystem through offsets and technology absorption.

Agencies

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Securing The Skies: A Doctrinal Blueprint For India's AMCA Multi-Spectrum Stealth Strategy

The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) represents the most significant leap in Indian aerospace history, transitioning from a fifth-generation platform to a "system-of-systems" capable of surviving the detection-saturated battlefields of the 2030s.

As modern warfare shifts away from pure radar-centric stealth, the AMCA designers must move beyond traditional geometric shaping. The recent challenges faced by high-end platforms against passive infrared (IR) and distributed sensor networks dictate that the AMCA’s survival will depend on its ability to manage its signature across every detectable spectrum.

To achieve true multi-spectrum stealth, the AMCA project must prioritise "Thermal Transparency" as much as it does radar invisibility. This involves the integration of an Advanced Thermal Management System (ATMS).

Unlike current platforms where heat is simply vented, the AMCA should utilize its fuel as a primary heat sink, circulating it through the airframe to soak up heat from the engines and avionics before it can reach the outer skin.

This ensures that the aircraft's thermal contrast against the cold sky is minimized, effectively blinding enemy Infrared Search and Track (IRST) systems.

Engineers should specifically focus on the development of "Cold Skin" technologies using metamaterials. India’s recent advancements, such as the Anālakṣhya Metamaterial Surface Cloaking System (MSCS), provide a foundation for this.

The Anālakṣhya Metamaterial Surface Cloaking System (MSCS) is an Indian-developed, textile-based, broadband microwave absorber designed by IIT-Kanpur to provide, near-perfect, passive, and as detailed on Reddit multispectral camouflage for defence assets. The technology renders objects invisible to radar and infrared detection, protecting tanks and aircraft. 

By applying multi-spectral camouflage that absorbs microwave radiation while simultaneously reflecting the background ambient temperature in the infrared band, the AMCA can "blend" into the atmospheric noise. This dual-layered approach ensures that the aircraft remains a "ghost" to both traditional S-band radars and high-sensitivity IRST seekers.

The AMCA’s propulsion system, particularly for the MK-2 variant, must incorporate a "Platypus" or 2D-thrust vectoring nozzle design. The goal is to flatten the exhaust plume, which is the most prominent infrared target for a heat-seeking missile.

By mixing the hot exhaust gases with bypass air more aggressively and shielding the engine's hot turbines through serpentine "S-duct" intakes—which have already achieved a 98% pressure recovery milestone in recent ADA testing—the AMCA can drastically reduce its "Lock-On" range for enemy interceptors.

Furthermore, the AMCA designers must incorporate "Cognitive Electronic Warfare" (CEW) driven by indigenous AI chips. In an environment where Quantum Radars may soon be operational, static stealth is insufficient.

The AMCA’s mission computer should utilize AI to monitor the electromagnetic environment in real-time, adjusting the aircraft's active emissions to match the background clutter. This "Active Signature Management" would allow the pilot to navigate through detection gaps that are invisible to the human eye but calculated by the machine.

Finally, the AMCA must be designed from the outset as a mothership for "Collaborative Combat Aircraft" (CCA) or loyal wingmen. To avoid detection, the AMCA can operate in a "Sensor Silent" mode, with its own radar turned off, while its autonomous drone partners fly ahead with their sensors active.

These drones can transmit targeting data back to the AMCA via low-probability-of-intercept (LPI) data links. This ensures that the primary manned platform never reveals its position through electronic emissions, striking the enemy from the shadows of a distributed sensor web.

By merging these advanced thermal management systems, metamaterial cloaking, AI-driven electronic warfare, and drone-teaming tactics, the AMCA can leapfrog current fifth-generation limitations. This strategy ensures that the aircraft is not just a domestic success, but a globally competitive platform capable of enduring the quantum and infrared age of air combat.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Ghost In The Machine: The Death of Passive Stealth and the Rise of The Quantum Dogfight

The era of radar-centric stealth is evolving into a more complex, multi-spectral "evasion race." As evidenced by the challenges faced in recent conflicts, modern air superiority now depends on managing an aircraft's visibility across the entire electromagnetic spectrum, with a particular focus on the infrared (IR) signatures that traditional stealth has long struggled to hide.

To counter passive detection systems like Infrared Search and Track (IRST), which "see" heat without emitting detectable signals, the next generation of American air power—including the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) and upgrades to the F-35—is employing a suite of advanced technical countermeasures.

1. Advanced Thermal Management Systems

The most critical countermeasure involves active thermal management. Future fighters like the Boeing F-47 (the selected NGAD design) are being built around Adaptive Cycle Engines, such as the General Electric XA102. Unlike traditional engines, these can vary their bypass ratios to optimize fuel efficiency while significantly increasing "heat sink" capacity. By circulating fuel or specialized coolants through the airframe before it reaches the engine, the aircraft can absorb heat from onboard electronics and internal friction, effectively "soaking up" its own thermal signature before it can be emitted.

2. Multi-Spectral Coatings And "Cold" Skins

Beyond structural cooling, engineers are developing new low-emissivity (low-e) coatings. These are advanced variants of the radar-absorbent materials (RAM) used today, but designed to manipulate the infrared spectrum. These coatings work by:

Thermal Reflection: Using thin-film vacuum coatings (similar to magnetron sputtering) to reflect the ambient temperature of the sky, making the jet blend into the cold background of the upper atmosphere.

Signature Masking: Utilising materials that shift the wavelength of emitted heat to a frequency that is harder for standard IRST sensors to distinguish from "thermal clutter" or atmospheric noise.

3. Exhaust Plume Suppression

The engine exhaust is the most conspicuous thermal target. Countermeasures here involve Thrust Vectoring Nozzles that are shaped like "platypus" tails (as seen on the F-22) to flatten the exhaust plume, allowing it to mix more rapidly with the cold ambient air. Additionally, some experimental designs use fuel additives specifically engineered to reduce the infrared luminosity of the exhaust gases, making the trailing "heat tail" significantly shorter and dimmer.

4. Aerodynamic Heating Reduction

At high speeds, the friction of air against the aircraft’s leading edges (wings and nose) creates a "hot spot" that IRST systems can lock onto from long distances. To counter this, sixth-generation designs are moving toward smoother, "tailless" geometries that reduce drag and turbulent airflow. By minimizing the number of edges and vertices, the aircraft reduces the kinetic energy converted into heat, effectively lowering the skin temperature during high-speed cruise.

5. Tactical Deception: Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T)

Perhaps the most effective countermeasure is not a material, but a tactic. The use of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA)—loyal wingman drones—allows the primary stealth jet to remain "thermally silent." These drones can fly ahead with their own IR sensors active or even emit "decoy" thermal signatures to lure enemy IRST systems away from the manned platform. By distributing the thermal "noise" across a swarm of lower-cost drones, the high-value American stealth jet can navigate the battlefield as a "sensor-shooter" while the drones absorb the enemy's detection and fire

The shift toward multi-spectrum stealth acknowledges a simple truth: you can no longer hide from physics. Instead, the goal has moved from being "invisible" to being "indistinguishable" from the background, ensuring that even if an aircraft is seen, it cannot be effectively targeted.

 AI And Real-Time Signature Management

The battle to remain "invisible" has moved beyond static airframe shapes and specialized paint. In 2026, the forefront of stealth is a high-stakes chess match between Cognitive Electronic Warfare (AI) and Quantum Detection. Modern stealth is no longer a "set and forget" feature. Sixth-generation fighters like the F-47 NGAD use AI as a digital "cloak manager" to actively manipulate how the aircraft appears to the world in real-time.

Cognitive Electronic Warfare: AI algorithms now monitor the electromagnetic "smog" of the battlefield. If an enemy radar adjusts its frequency to try and "catch" a stealth jet, the onboard AI detects the shift instantly and recalculates the aircraft’s jamming or emission profile to stay beneath the noise floor. 

 Active Signature Control: AI manages "active" stealth by controlling minute actuators on the aircraft's skin or adjusting engine bypass air to match the ambient thermal background. The goal is to ensure the jet's temperature matches the surrounding air exactly, effectively making it "thermally transparent" to the IRST systems that troubled the F-35 in the Middle East.

Predictive Manoeuvring: The AI co-pilot suggests flight paths that minimise the aircraft's "glint" (brief radar reflections) based on the known positions of enemy sensors, effectively navigating through the gaps in a radar net.

The Adversary: Quantum Radar

While AI helps aircraft hide, Quantum Radar is being developed to make hiding impossible. Countries like China and India are actively prototyping these systems to bypass traditional stealth.

How it Works: Unlike classical radar, which sends out a radio wave and waits for a reflection, Quantum Radar uses Quantum Illumination. It creates pairs of "entangled" photons. One photon (the signal) is sent toward the target, while its twin (the idler) is kept at the base.

Why Stealth Fails: Because the photons are entangled, any interaction the signal photon has with a "stealthy" surface—even if that surface is designed to absorb or deflect it—changes the photon's state. When the reflected photon returns, it is compared to the idler. This allows the radar to filter out all background noise and jamming with near-perfect accuracy.

Physics Over Geometry: Quantum Radar doesn't care about the shape of the jet. It detects the presence of an object by identifying the "quantum fingerprint" of the return signal. This renders Radar Absorbent Material (RAM) and angled wings virtually useless.

The 2026 Stalemate

We are entering a period of "Technological Stalemate." Stealth is becoming more active and AI-driven to hide from heat and radio waves, while detection is moving into the quantum realm to ignore those very tricks.

Counter-Quantum Tactics: To beat a Quantum Radar, aircraft are exploring Quantum Jamming, which attempts to flood the sky with "fake" entangled photons to break the link between the enemy's signal and idler photons.

Multi-Static Networks: Since a single radar is easy to spoof, militaries are moving toward "Multi-static" webs—dozens of small, cheap sensors (on drones, buoys, and satellites) that watch a target from every angle simultaneously. Even if an F-35 is stealthy from the front, it is rarely stealthy from the side or top.

The Bottom Line: In 2026, the "End of the Radar Stealth Era" doesn't mean aircraft will be easy to see; it means the cat-and-mouse game has moved from the workshop to the processor.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Localised Su-57 Manufacturing: A Strategic Pathway To Enhancing India’s Fifth-Generation Air Power

Retired Group Captain Uttam Kumar Devnath, a veteran of the Indian Air Force, has put forward a compelling case for the licensed production of Russia's Su-57 stealth fighter within India, according to a report by Sputnik India.

He suggests that such an initiative would not only drastically reduce the unit costs of the aircraft but also significantly accelerate the timelines for their induction into service. This proposal comes at a time when the Indian Air Force is looking to bolster its combat capabilities with advanced fifth-generation platforms.

The veteran highlights that India possesses a wealth of proven expertise in handling Russian aviation platforms, citing the long history of operating the MiG series and the successful licensed production of the Su-30MKI.

🚨🇮🇳🇷🇺 India’s Su-57 program may boost self-reliance to 70%: IAF Vet

Indigenous content could steadily climb from 30% to 70% over time through domestic production.

If inducted by 2035, these jets could serve the IAF for 40–50 years — just like other rugged Russian fighters.👇 https://t.co/aIDXiOqiQ1 pic.twitter.com/whKuZGK1hZ

— Sputnik India (@Sputnik_India) April 6, 2026

This existing technical foundation would allow for a progressive indigenisation process. According to Devnath, Indian industry could realistically scale its contribution from an initial 30 per cent to as much as 70 per cent, covering critical areas such as avionics, mission software, and complex airframe structures.

Beyond the initial purchase, the report emphasises the substantial economic benefits of domestic manufacturing. Local production would lead to significant savings across the entire lifecycle of the aircraft, including acquisition, long-term sustainment, and the overall cost-per-flying-hour.

By reducing dependence on imported components and foreign technicians, India could ensure a more cost-effective and sustainable fleet management strategy for its frontline fighters.

This move would be fully aligned with the national 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative, which seeks to transform the country into a global manufacturing hub for defence equipment. 

Furthermore, the veteran argues that the Su-57 project could serve as a vital technological bridge to India’s own indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. The skills and infrastructure developed while building the Su-57 could directly feed into the success of the domestic stealth fighter project.

A key advantage noted by the retired officer is the flexibility offered by Russian defence partnerships compared to those with Western nations. He observes that Russian platforms generally allow for a much higher degree of localisation and technology transfer.

If New Delhi decides to re-engage with the Su-57 program through a domestic manufacturing lens, it could represent a game-changing shift in India's strategic posture and industrial capability.

Sputnik India

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HAL Eyes 50% Capacity For Su-57 Co-Production As IAF Seeks Quick Stealth Boost As AMCA Timeline Stretches

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has confirmed discussions with a Russian delegation regarding potential collaboration for Su-57 production.

The Indian Air Force (IAF), which has been facing a severe fighter squadron shortage, operating around 30 squadrons—well below the sanctioned strength of 42—appears to have not given up on the Russian fifth-generation Su-57 offer, despite official claims of not actively pursuing a deal.

Delays in key indigenous programs, particularly the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), have prompted India to look for stop-gap measures, including the Russian stealth fighter jet.

HAL Chairman and Managing Director D K Sunil has recently confirmed that a Russian delegation has reviewed the details of a potential collaboration between HAL and Russia for the supply of the fifth-generation fighter jet, and a quotation from the Russian side is awaited regarding the investment.

In an interview with news agency ANI, he said the Russian side has made a presentation to the IAF regarding the capabilities of the fighter jet.

"We have had one estimation of the capacity of our plants for the Russian equipment. A committee of Russians has also studied and said that roughly 50 per cent of the facilities can be used for producing this aircraft, but some new investments will be required," he was quoted as saying.

He said HAL is awaiting a quotation from Russia regarding the investment, and then "we will approach the Air Force that these are the kind of numbers required to produce these aircraft and these are the timelines."

India and Russia have a robust defence relationship, with a military-technical cooperation agreement for 2021–2031 focusing on joint research, development, production, and after-sales support of weapons and military equipment.

Over the years, the longstanding and wide-ranging military technical cooperation between New Delhi and Moscow has evolved from a buyer-seller framework to one involving joint research, development, and production of advanced defence technologies and systems.

The prime example of this relationship is the BrahMos missile, jointly developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya.

The Sukhoi Su-30MKI multi-role fighter aircraft is another major pillar of this partnership, with licensed production carried out by HAL.

However, any decision will likely hinge on costs, technology transfer, and how it aligns with the timelines of the indigenous AMCA program, which continues to be India’s primary long-term bet.

This development underscores the IAF's pressing need to address its squadron shortfall, as the current 30 squadrons fall critically short of the 42 authorised, amid evolving regional threats from neighbours like China and Pakistan.

The Su-57, Russia's premier fifth-generation stealth fighter, offers advanced avionics, supercruise capability, and sensor fusion, potentially bridging the gap until indigenous platforms mature.

HAL's assessment that 50 per cent of its existing facilities could be repurposed highlights the company's established expertise in licensed production of Russian designs, such as the Su-30MKI, which has been a cornerstone of IAF strength.

However, the requirement for new investments signals that full-scale production would demand significant capital, likely scrutinised under India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The 2021–2031 military-technical cooperation agreement provides a solid framework, emphasising not just supply but co-development and sustainment, mirroring successes like BrahMos, which has evolved into a hypersonic variant through joint Indo-Russian efforts.

Official reticence on pursuing the Su-57 may stem from geopolitical shifts, including India's diversification towards Western partners like the US and France for Rafale and potential F-35 collaborations, but Russia's reliability in deliveries remains a draw.

AMCA delays, tied to engine development challenges with partners like Safran and GE, make interim solutions vital; the Su-57 could deliver numbers quickly if technology transfer includes local assembly and upgrades.

D K Sunil's proactive stance—awaiting cost quotes before pitching to IAF—demonstrates HAL's readiness to scale, potentially producing dozens of jets to bolster squadrons along the northern borders.

Critically, the deal's viability rests on three pillars: competitive pricing against global peers, substantial ToT (technology transfer) for stealth coatings and AESA radars, and seamless integration with AMCA timelines projected for mid-2030s induction.

As India navigates this, the Su-57 path could revitalise Indo-Russian ties strained by Ukraine-related sanctions, while accelerating HAL's pivot to fifth-gen manufacturing.

Agencies

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