In a pivotal development for India’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) acquisition, Russia’s Rostec has proposed the Su-57E stealth fighter as a significantly more cost-effective alternative to the French Rafale, claiming potential procurement costs could be nearly half that of the Rafale package, which is valued at over $24 billion for 114 jets. This offer includes full technology transfer and access to the aircraft’s source code, allowing the Indian Air Force (IAF) enhanced operational autonomy to integrate indigenous weaponry and upgrade systems independently. The proposals echo elements from the successful Su-30MKI program, suggesting a dual-track strategy for integrating advanced Su-57 technologies into the IAF’s existing fleet. Additionally, the Su-57E’s capabilities are said to have evolved substantially since India’s withdrawal from the Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) collaboration in 2018, with substantive advancements in aerodynamics, weaponry, and propulsion. As India navigates its long-term defense strategy, the choice between the proven Rafale and the promising Su-57E could significantly impact the IAF’s future operational capabilities while reflecting broader geopolitical dynamics amidst shifting alliances and pressures.