India has adopted a cautious stance regarding Russia’s offers of the Su-57E stealth fighter, opting for a limited direct purchase rather than extensive co-development, as it prioritizes its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Despite Russia’s advocacy for a deep Transfer of Technology, New Delhi is exploring acquiring 40 to 60 Su-57Es primarily as an interim solution to enhance the Indian Air Force’s capabilities until the AMCA is operational by the mid-2030s. This decision reflects lessons learned from the previous FGFA program, where disputes and rising costs led to India’s withdrawal from co-development. As India diversifies its defense procurement and focuses on self-reliance, it remains skeptical of foreign projects that could derail its domestic production timelines while securing agreements on high-performance engine technology, positioning itself at the forefront of advanced military capability. The ongoing strategic recalibration underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its defense industrial base amid evolving geopolitical dynamics, as it balances partnerships with Russia and the West.