Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 and America’s F-35 Set for a “Showdown” at Aero India 2025 Next Month ??
At present, it remains uncertain whether the Su-57 and F-35 will share the same tarmac, but if the encounter does take place, it would be a rare and significant moment—bringing together two fifth-generation fighter jets from rival nations in a single venue.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The much-anticipated “showdown” between Russia’s fifth-generation fighter jet, the Sukhoi Su-57, and the F-35 from the United States at Aero India 2025, set to take place in Bengaluru from February 10-14, may not materialize.
This follows an update on the official website of the U.S. Air Combat Command (ACC), which indicates that the participation of F-35 and F-16 fighter jets in Aero India 2025 has been canceled.
However, Indian media reports citing Indian Air Force (IAF) officials claim that the participation of U.S. fighter jets in the air show is proceeding as scheduled, with no changes confirmed.
At present, it remains uncertain whether the Su-57 and F-35 will share the same tarmac, but if the encounter does take place, it would be a rare and significant moment—bringing together two fifth-generation fighter jets from rival nations in a single venue.
The F-35, developed by Lockheed Martin, previously made an appearance at Aero India 2023.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Su-57 will be showcased in India for the first time at the 15th edition of Aero India 2025, with speculation that Russian President Vladimir Putin may also visit New Delhi during the event.
Su-57“Su-57”
Aero India, held biennially, is India’s premier aerospace exhibition.
Russia has long targeted India as a potential customer for the Su-57, following their successful collaboration on the Su-30MKI program, which was manufactured locally by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The IAF currently operates 272 Su-30MKI fighter jets, with the majority of them produced domestically.
Moscow has high hopes that New Delhi will acquire the Su-57, especially given that India initially agreed to co-develop a fifth-generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) based on the Su-57 in 2007.
However, in 2018, India withdrew from the Su-57/FGFA program, citing concerns over technological shortcomings, engine performance issues, high costs, and limited technology transfer from Russia.
Instead, India has focused on developing its own fifth-generation fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), while also considering the potential acquisition of the F-35 in the future.
The Sukhoi Su-57 is already in operational service with the Russian Air Force, albeit in limited numbers. It was previously showcased at the China Airshow in Zhuhai in November last year.
India faces increasing pressure to acquire a fifth-generation fighter jet, particularly following reports that its regional adversary, Pakistan, is set to procure the Chinese-made fifth generation fighter aircraft, the J-35A.
Pakistan’s acquisition of the J-35A, along with the potential purchase of the KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet from Turkiye, is expected to intensify the regional air power balance, placing additional pressure on India.
The J-35A offers Pakistan stealth capabilities and enhanced strike capabilities, significantly boosting the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) operational strength.
If Pakistan proceeds with acquiring both the J-35A and the KAAN, it will further strengthen its air combat superiority, posing a serious challenge to India’s existing fleet of fourth-generation fighters, such as the Su-30MKI and Rafale.
