Context
• Russia has again pushed India to consider buying Su-57 fifth-generation fighters, long-range drones, and submarines.
• India has shown a lukewarm response, prioritising indigenous defence production and self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
• Despite 19 agreements signed during President Putin’s visit, no breakthrough occurred on Su-57 or S-500 collaboration.
• India is now focusing heavily on domestic capability, defence production rising to ₹1.51 lakh crore (from ₹46,000 crore in 2014).
• Russia expected interest in platforms like the Geran kamikaze drones, but India has not shown strong intent.
What is the Su-57?
• Russia’s fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter.
• Designed by Sukhoi for air superiority + strike missions.
What are Kamikaze Drones?
• Also called loitering munitions.
• They loiter over an area, identify a target, and then self- destruct on impact, acting as both drone and missile.
