India Explores Su-57 Acquisition and Partnership in European FCAS Fighter Program

India is considering acquiring 36-40 Russian Su-57E stealth fighters, including access to source codes for customization, to enhance its air force's stealth capabilities while its indigenous AMCA program develops. Concurrently, India shows interest in partnering with France on the European FCAS sixth-generation fighter project, aiming to leapfrog to advanced technologies like unmanned and AI-driven warfare. This dual approach could accelerate India's defense research and strengthen its strategic autonomy amid regional and global dynamics.