Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has expressed its readiness to collaborate with Russia on the production of advanced military aircraft, including the fifth-generation Su-57 stealth fighter, as the Indian Air Force (IAF) seeks to modernize its fleet amid a critical shortfall of fighter squadrons. Building on a successful history of Indo-Russian defense cooperation, HAL aims to leverage its existing infrastructure to potentially manufacture up to 140 Su-57 jets locally, which aligns with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and could mitigate delays in its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program. However, negotiations over technology transfer, particularly concerning the Su-57’s sensitive engine technology, remain a significant challenge. This partnership is poised to enhance India’s combat capabilities while providing Russia a crucial economic boost amid Western sanctions.