Aero India 2025 Jets: India is hosting its grand aviation event, Aero India 2025, at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru from February 10 to 15. This biennial air show is a major aerospace and defence exhibition where global vendors and the Indian Air Force (IAF) showcase thrilling aerobatic flying displays.
This year, Russia will debut its Su-57 Felon, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, in Indian skies at the show as reported by Indian defence research wing. Meanwhile, there is speculation that the F-35 Lightning II fighter from the USA will also be part of the event. The F-35 participated in Aero India 2023, and India may be considering a deal with the USA to procure these advanced jets.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for promoting exports of the Su-57, is expected to visit India later this year. Experts believe this visit is a perfect chance for India to strengthen defence ties with Russia. During the air show, groundwork may be laid for discussions about acquiring the Su-57 as the IAF plans to modernize its fleet.
The Su-57 Felon, developed by Sukhoi, is Russia’s most advanced front-line aircraft. It was recently inducted into the Russian Air Force and is considered one of the best stealth fighter jets in the world. It offers improvements in stealth, avionics, and combat capabilities, including the ability to carry hypersonic weapons. President Putin may propose a deal to co-manufacture the Su-57 with India under the “Make in India” initiative.
“The performance of Su-57 at Aero India will attract significant attention from the IAF,” said experts. Before coming to India, the Su-57 appeared at the Zhuhai Air Show in China in November 2024, its first international debut.
India has experience working with Russia on fighter jets. According to India.com, currently, the IAF operates over 250 Su-30MKIs, which were manufactured under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). In 2007, India and Russia signed a contract to co-develop a fifth-generation fighter. If the Su-57 deal goes through, HAL could collaborate with Sukhoi to make an improved version of this jet.
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Experts believe such a partnership could strengthen the long-standing ties between India and Russia. “This collaboration would be a reflection of the strong defence cooperation during the Soviet era,” analysts noted.
Aero India 2025 will not just showcase aviation technology but also act as a platform for India and Russia to explore new defence strategies and collaborations.
