Russia Offers India Joint Production of Su-57 Stealth Fighter India and Russia had initiated a joint program in 2007 to co-develop a fifth-generation fighter, but a decade later, in 2018, New Delhi withdrew from the project due to concerns over issues such as costs, technology access, and the aircraft’s stealth capabilities. Russia went on to develop the Su-57 independently. Russian President Vladimir Putin has now offered India joint production of the advanced stealth fighter, stating Moscow is willing to cooperate without “limitations.” During a media interaction in St. Petersburg, Putin emphasized that Russia is ready to supply India with the Su-57, continue its development, and integrate it with Indian systems. The renewed Russian offer comes at a critical juncture for India’s airpower modernization. India currently lacks a fifth-generation fighter, with the most advanced aircraft in its air force being the French Rafale, which is not a stealth platform. This creates a significant capability gap compared to China, which is rapidly expanding its stealth fighter fleet. Reports indicate Pakistan is also planning to acquire stealth jets from China, further intensifying India’s strategic considerations. India is accelerating a domestic program to develop an advanced fifth-generation multirole combat aircraft, but operational deployment is projected to be at least a decade away. Indian officials have not yet publicly responded to the Russian offer, though D.K. Sunil, former chairman of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, mentioned that Russia had presented the Su-57’s capabilities to India. He noted that the country is awaiting a Russian quotation on investment terms before approaching the air force. The Su-57 was showcased at the Aero India exhibition in Bengaluru last year.#india #russia #putin #su_57 #aero_india
Kremlin Tightens Security Around Putin Amid Assassinations and Coup Fears The Kremlin has significantly escalated the personal security measures surrounding President Vladimir Putin, implementing advanced surveillance systems in the homes of his close aides and restricting his public appearances, according to a report from a European intelligence agency shared with CNN. These actions, driven by a series of high-profile assassinations of Russian military officials and growing concerns about a potential coup, reflect deepening internal tensions within the Russian leadership. The report highlights the Kremlin’s heightened vigilance amid mounting challenges both domestically and abroad, including economic strain, military setbacks in Ukraine, and rising dissent within the elite. The security upgrades were reportedly initiated in recent months following the killing of Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov in December 2025, an event that sparked a rift among Russia’s security establishment. The report details how the assassination, likely carried out by Ukrainian agents, prompted a critical meeting between Putin and senior military officials, where Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov publicly criticized the Federal Security Service (FSB) for failing to protect his officers. Gerasimov accused the FSB of lacking resources and foresight, while the FSB, in turn, blamed the military for not providing adequate support. This clash underscored the growing mistrust and infighting within the security apparatus, which the Kremlin has since addressed by expanding high-level security protocols for 10 additional senior commanders. Putin’s personal security has become a priority, with his movements severely restricted. The report states that he has avoided his usual residences in the Moscow region and his secluded summer property near St.#kremlin #putin #fsb #valery_gerasimov #sergei_shoigu
