India's reported interest in joint production of fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jets is seen through the prism of experience in implementing the previous FGFA program. Before entering into any large-scale combat aviation partnership, New Delhi is expected to push for deeper technology transfer, broad participation of its industry and operational control. The Mi-57 is a fifth generation fighter jet that uses stealth technology. At the same time, the previous Russian-Indian joint program to create a fifth-generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) ended without meeting the expectations of the Indian side. Any new proposal must contain clear terms regarding intellectual property rights, depth of localization of production, creation of a technical service ecosystem and export rights. India's priority remains developing its own capabilities - particularly through the David program - as the country considers foreign partnerships to gain access to critical technologies. The results of these discussions will determine India's future Air Force strategy and the balance between independence and strategic defense partnerships with other countries. India will probably require partnerships involving real technology transfer to avoid a repeat of the FGFA program scenario.

India's reported interest in joint production of fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jets is seen through the prism of experience in implementing the previous FGFA program. Before entering into any large-scale combat aviation partnership, New Delhi is expected to push for deeper technology transfer, broad participation of its industry and operational control. The Mi-57 is a fifth generation fighter jet that uses stealth technology. At the same time, the previous Russian-Indian joint program to create a fifth-generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) ended without meeting the expectations of the Indian side. Any new proposal must contain clear terms regarding intellectual property rights, depth of localization of production, creation of a technical service ecosystem and export rights. India's priority remains developing its own capabilities - particularly through the David program - as the country considers foreign partnerships to gain access to critical technologies. The results of these discussions will determine India's future Air Force strategy and the balance between independence and strategic defense partnerships with other countries. India will probably require partnerships involving real technology transfer to avoid a repeat of the FGFA program scenario.