Moscow and New Delhi recently held consultations on potentially building Russia’s latest fighters on Indian soil.
India currently needs two to three Su-57 squadrons, the outlet ANI reports.
India is also still weighing possible purchases of U.S.-made F-35s.
That’s why Moscow moved first, proposing that New Delhi start Su-57 production in India.
Experts say the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited complex in Nashik, which already builds Su-30MKI aircraft, could be retooled for Su-57 manufacturing.
Other plants in India that already produce Russian-origin equipment could also be brought into the effort.
The issue resurfaced between Moscow and New Delhi after Washington raised tariffs on India.
Russia has repeatedly offered India Su-57 jets, as well as S-400 and S-500 air defense systems.
India once took an active role in a joint fifth-generation fighter program with Russia but withdrew over disagreements.
Even though India has not abandoned the idea of developing its own fifth-generation fighter, the United States is pushing for F-35 sales. New Delhi still aims for a homegrown jet, which could make its first flight in 2028 and enter service in 2035.
