India has much to gain from Russia’s AI-fighter jet tests

Russia is taking a giant leap in the world of defence with artificial intelligence. It recently tested a new version of its Sukhoi fighter jet, the Su-57M, which flew with assistance from AI. The jet made headlines around the globe, and now, India is watching closely—with good reason.

In this test flight, Russian pilot Sergei Bogdan sat in the cockpit, but most of the hard work—like steering, target spotting, and decision-making—was done by the AI system. That means the jet could fly smarter and faster, giving the pilot more time to focus on strategy. Experts believe this tech could match, or even rival, top American fighter jets like the F-22 Raptor and F-35.

Here’s how India could benefit. The country already uses over 270 Su-30MKI fighter jets, which are based on the same Sukhoi design. These jets are not just imported—they’ve been built and assembled in India, thanks to the long-standing defence relationship between Moscow and New Delhi that goes back decades.

Now, if Russia decides to offer its AI upgrade to friendly nations, India is likely to be high on the list. With such a large Sukhoi fleet, India could be in a prime position to modernize its air force without buying entirely new planes. That’s not only smart, but also cost-effective.

The AI-powered Su-57M comes loaded with features. It can scan the skies in all directions, track up to 60 targets at once, and even engage eight of them simultaneously. Its radar system is designed to be stealthy, making it harder for enemies to detect.

For India, gaining access to such technology could be a game-changer. It would boost the country’s defence capabilities and deepen ties with Russia. With the future of warfare moving toward automation and AI, this could be the perfect moment for India to upgrade and stay ahead in the skies.

Also read: A botched launch and furious Kim: North Korea’s warship debacle