F-35 vs. Su-57- What’s Better For India?

US and Russia can fill the stopgap for a fifth-generation fighter plane. Here’s a look at the features of American F-35 and Russian Su-57E.

During the big Modi-Trump meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump has extended an offer to India to buy the advanced F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jets. This proposal comes amid ongoing discussions between the U.S. and India to strengthen defence ties and tackle trade imbalances. USA is not the only nation that wants India to buy its fifth-generation fighter jets. Russian defence major Rosoboronexport has also announced that it would like to sell its fifth-generation fighter Su-57E to India. India is focusing on developing its own fifth generation fighter AMCA. Yet, the project still requires some time before it starts delivering results. Indian officials have mentioned that if needed, India can explore other options. They can fill the stopgap for a fifth-generation fighter plane. Here’s a look at the features of American F-35 and Russian Su-57E.

F-35 Lightning II Combat Capabilities

Developed by Lockheed Martin, the F-35 is a modern single-engine, single-seat stealth multirole fighter plane. It is designed to carry out a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and intelligence gathering.

The F-35 comes in three variants-

• F-35A-Conventional take-off and landing variant for the U.S. Air Force.
• F-35B-Short take-off and vertical landing variant for the U.S. Marine Corps.
• F-35C-Carrier-based variant for the U.S. Navy.

Key specifications of the F-35 include a top speed of Mach 1.6. This is approximately 1,931 km/h. It has a combat range of around 1,500 kilometers. The F-35 also possesses advanced stealth capabilities, making it less detectable to enemy radar systems. The plane is equipped with sophisticated avionics and sensor systems, enhancing its situational awareness and combat effectiveness. F-35 is known for its stealth capabilities.

Sukhoi Su-57 Combat Capabilities

The Su-57, developed by Russia’s Sukhoi company, is a twin-engine, fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter plane. It is designed for air superiority and strike missions, capable of engaging both aerial and ground targets. The Su-57 features advanced avionics, manoeuvrability, and stealth technology.

The Su-57 has several notable specifications. It includes a top speed of Mach 2 (approximately 2,136 km/h). Additionally, it has a combat range of about 1,900 kilometers. The plane can carry a variety of weapons in its internal bays and on external hardpoints. The plane’s design emphasizes agility and speed, with a focus on achieving air dominance.

Comparing The Cost Factor

One of the most significant factors in India’s decision will be the cost of these fifth-generation stealth fighters. The F-35 is historically one of the most expensive fighter jets. Each unit costs between $80 million and $110 million, depending on the variant. Additionally, its lifetime operational cost, including maintenance, spare parts, and upgrades, is estimated to exceed $1.5 trillion over the program’s lifespan. In contrast, the Su-57 is significantly cheaper. Its estimated unit cost is $35 million to $40 million. This is less than half the price of an F-35. Yet, while the Su-57 is more affordable upfront, the F-35 benefits from a larger global supply chain. It has more advanced avionics. The F-35 also offers extensive NATO interoperability. India must weigh these factors against its long-term strategic and economic interests.

India’s Considerations

India has a longstanding defence relationship with Russia, with Russian-origin equipment comprising a significant part of its military arsenal. The Indian Air Force now operates Russian-designed planes, like the Su-30MKI. The introduction of the Su-57 into India’s fleet would represent a continuation of this partnership.

Nonetheless, the U.S. offer of the F-35 presents India with an opportunity. It allows India to diversify its defence acquisitions. This offer also helps integrate advanced Western technology into its military. The F-35’s cutting-edge stealth features and network-centric warfare capabilities could enhance India’s operational effectiveness.

Experts note that American defence deals often come with stringent conditions, which can cause hesitation on India’s part. Additionally, integrating a new airplane platform would need significant adjustments to India’s existing military infrastructure and training programs.

India is also pursuing its indigenous fifth-generation fighter program, the Advanced Medium Combat Plane (AMCA). Procuring foreign stealth fighters will impact the development and funding of the AMCA project.

At Aero India 2025, both F-35 and SU-57 participated. A representative from Russian makers of SU-57 recently stated they are ready to offer this fifth-generation fighter plane to India. India remains an old defence partner. The Russian company representative explained the capabilities of SU-57. They mentioned that if India buys the Russian jet, it will neither have to worry about sanctions. It will not have to wait for the parts. India has been waiting for American F404 engines. Its LCA Tejas Mk1A programme is presently delayed due to the lack of these engines.