New Delhi, June 6 (). The discussion on this has intensified after Russian President Vladimir Putin offered the state-of-the-art Sukhoi-57 (SU-57) fighter aircraft to India. Defense expert Prafulla Bakshi believes that if India moves towards joint development and manufacturing of Sukhoi-57 with Russia, it will not only increase the strength of the Indian Air Force, but will also give a big benefit to the indigenous defense technology.
Prafulla Bakshi told that at present India needs advanced defense technologies the most. He said that engine technology, avionics technology, cockpit design, glass cockpit and other modern defense systems are among the major requirements of India. He said that India especially needs engine technology. Even though America is providing GE-404 engine for Tejas fighter aircraft, India has not yet been able to develop a completely indigenous fighter aircraft engine.
Referring to the features of Sukhoi-57, Prafulla Bakshi said that it is counted among the most modern fighter aircraft in the world. It is a twin-engine, stealth capable and highly agile fighter jet. Apart from this, it is capable of flying at a speed greater than the speed of sound i.e. supersonic. He said that considering the needs of modern warfare, there is a need for such an aircraft.
Defense expert said that some countries including Algeria already have Sukhoi-57 and perhaps its supply has also started. He said that its biggest feature is its modern technology and combat capability, which makes it different from other fighter aircraft.
Commenting on Russia’s offer, Prafulla Bakshi said that Russia is well aware that India needs such advanced fighter aircraft. He said that the Indian Air Force requirement is around 42.5 to 43 squadrons, whereas currently it has only 29 squadrons available, which means we are short by 13-14 squadrons.
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