The Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively pursuing interim fifth-generation stealth fighter capabilities in light of a significant operational gap until the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is realized, projected for the mid-2030s. Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has indicated that while the focus remains on defining precise operational requirements, the urgency to secure advanced aerial capabilities has led to discussions about potential foreign contenders, with the Russian Su-57 and American F-35 being noted as primary candidates. The Su-57, in particular, presents strategic advantages including local production opportunities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, advanced stealth features, and a lower cost of operation compared to Western alternatives, which could enhance India’s air dominance amidst regional threats, particularly from China. The acquisition of such platforms not only aims to address immediate squadron shortages but also seeks to strengthen India’s defense industrial base and self-reliance in modern combat aviation, which is critical given the evolving security dynamics in the region.