Su-57 vs F-35: India’s Fifth-Generation Fighter Dilemma

India’s decision on fifth-generation fighter aircraft will shape its airpower, strategic autonomy, and defence industrial base for decades. This Global Eye Intelligence report offers a sharp, comparative assessment of Russia’s Su-57 manufacturing offer in India versus the U.S. F-35, through the lens of national security, geopolitics, and long-term self-reliance.

The report breaks down key performance parameters—stealth architecture, supercruise, manoeuvrability, avionics, sensor fusion, electronic warfare, payload capacity, and operational flexibility—highlighting where the Su-57 excels in agility and firepower, and where the F-35 dominates in stealth, data fusion, and network-centric warfare. It evaluates Russia’s proposal for local manufacturing, technology transfer, and co-development under Make in India, alongside constraints posed by engine reliability, production maturity, and geopolitical signalling.

Crucially, the analysis positions both aircraft against India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme, assessing whether interim acquisition strengthens or dilutes long-term Atmanirbharta. The report also dissects U.S. media narratives, regional power balance implications vis-à-vis China, and India’s delicate balancing act between Moscow and Washington.

Fifth-generation fighters are not just platforms—they are strategic choices. Those who understand this decision early will grasp how India’s air dominance, alliances, and defence sovereignty are being quietly recalibrated. Follow Global Eye Intelligence to stay ahead of defence decisions before they become irreversible doctrine.