Defence

Russia Plans to Propose Trilateral Co-Production of Su-57E Fighter Jets

In a recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Russian President Putin discussed a strategic proposal aimed at enhancing Russia’s global aviation market presence. The plan involves a trilateral co-production initiative for the advanced Su-57E fighter jets, with India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as potential partners. This move is strategically timed as both India and the UAE are exploring options for acquiring next-generation fighter aircraft.

Su-57 superior stealth capabilities

The UAE is eyeing the Su-57E due to its superior stealth capabilities and outstanding performance as a potential replacement for the US F-35 fighter jet, which is currently the subject of a $23 billion deal that has been suspended. Meanwhile, India, in the early stages of developing its indigenous fifth-generation fighter under the AMCA program, faces a lengthy timeline before the aircraft becomes operational.

The plan from Russia offers both countries a desirable outcome. Cost sharing and technology exchange are made possible by the trilateral co-production model, which is advantageous to all. Indian, Russian, and UAE workers would each receive a specific work-share arrangement from the manufacturer of Su-57E fighter jets. It also creates opportunities for exporting the Su-57E to other interested nations, which helps the economies of the participating countries.

Prospect of co-producing the Su-57E

The UAE has yet to officially respond, but the prospect of co-producing the Su-57E seems enticing, given its capabilities and potential for industrial collaboration. India, previously withdrawing from the FGFA program, might reconsider its stance in light of this new proposal.

Now, delving into the unique features of the Su-57E. This multirole fighter is built to carry out a variety of combat missions against surface, air, and ground targets both during the day and at night. Its low radar signature level, which offers covertness during combat operations, is one of its most notable features. This, along with its capacity to guarantee continuous supersonic cruise flight, makes the Su-57E an extremely powerful aircraft that can handle any kind of fighter or strike mission assigned to tactical aviation.

Russia’s proposal for trilateral co-production represents a shift in its approach to international defense partnerships. By offering a collaborative model, Russia aims to expand its global reach and position itself as a leading provider of advanced military technology.

Defence

Turkey Scraps F-16 Upgrade Deal, Chooses Domestic Tech

In a significant shift in its defense procurement strategy, Türkiye has scaled down its $23 billion F-16 fighter jet package from the United States.

The revised deal, announced on Tuesday, excludes the purchase of 79 modernization kits for its existing fleet of F-16s. Instead, Türkiye will rely on its domestic aerospace industry to upgrade its aircraft, showcasing the growing capabilities of Turkish defense manufacturers.

According to Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, Türkiye has already made an initial payment of $1.4 billion for the procurement of 40 new F-16 Block 70 Viper jets from Lockheed Martin.

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“We opted out of buying the 79 modernization kits because our Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) are capable of conducting these upgrades independently,” Güler stated. The decision highlights Türkiye’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous defense capabilities while still acquiring new aircraft from the U.S.

The new agreement, which includes the 40 F-16 Block 70 jets and associated ammunition, is expected to cost approximately $7 billion.

The Block 70 variant, also known as the “Viper,” features advanced technologies such as the Northrop Grumman APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar, a modernized cockpit, improved networking capabilities, a new mission computer, enhanced electronic warfare systems, and an upgraded communications suite.

However, it remains unclear which of these upgrades Turkish Aerospace Industries will undertake independently for the existing fleet. Türkiye’s original order for the F-16 jets was placed in October 2021, two years after it was removed from the fifth-generation F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

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The exclusion followed Türkiye’s acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system, which led to U.S. sanctions and the termination of Türkiye’s participation in the multinational F-35 project.

Despite the setback, Türkiye remains determined to rejoin the F-35 program and acquire 40 new F-35 jets.

“We insist on reclaiming our production share and maintain our request to acquire F-35s,” Güler emphasized, adding that while there are indications of willingness from the U.S. to discuss the matter, no concrete progress has been made.

Meanwhile, Türkiye continues to advance its domestic fighter jet program. The country’s fifth-generation fighter, the Kaan, completed its maiden flight in February 2024, and mass production is expected to begin by 2028.

This ambitious project underscores Türkiye’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign military technology and bolster its domestic defense industry.