Russia is leveraging its “battlefield experience” in a new defense pitch to India, offering to co-produce the Su-57 fighter jet. Ambassador Denis Alipov called the partnership “unique” because it is “rooted in battlefield experience that Russia willingly shares.”
Alipov cited “Operation Sindoor” as a “testament” to the effectiveness of the 70% of India’s military hardware that is of Russian origin.
This “battle-tested” legacy, honed in joint “Indra” exercises, is the foundation for the new offer. The proposal includes the Su-57, drones, anti-drone systems, and advanced radar.
This defense push is a clear counter to US pressure. After Donald Trump claimed India would halt Russian oil imports, a claim the US has backed with punitive tariffs, Russia is reminding India of its reliability as a security partner.
India’s MEA has refuted Trump’s claim, citing “national interest.” Russia’s offer of combat-proven technology provides a strong incentive to maintain that stance.
