Russia pushes Su‑75 fighter as India eyes replacements for mig‑29

The Russians are still grappling with issues surrounding the Su-75 fighter jet, which is meant to be a competitor to the American F-35. While the list of countries wanting to acquire the F-35 is expanding, the Su-75 has attracted minimal interest. Russia is seeking to change this. Defence Romania, citing an Indian news outlet, reports that Moscow is pressuring Delhi to select the Su-75 as a replacement for India's MiG-29.

Russia has previously attempted to persuade India to participate in the development of the Su-75 fighter jet. However, India, recalling the problems with the PAK FA program—specifically the construction of the Su-57 fighter jet, which faced discrepancies regarding technology transfer and specifications—did not show much enthusiasm. Additionally, India is developing two of its own indigenous fighter jets: the AMCA and Tejas MK-2 fighters.

Potential buyers are also not convinced by the fact that, to date, Russia has not yet produced a single Su-75 prototype. At the beginning of 2024, Rostec, which is responsible for the jet's development, announced that the fighter had undergone technical changes aimed at cost optimization, increasing its competitiveness and market attractiveness.

The Su-75, a lightweight fifth-generation Russian fighter jet, was unveiled in 2021. The Russians showcased its design and model during the MAKS 2021 International Aviation and Space Show. They announced that the aircraft would employ stealth technology, be capable of flying at a speed of Mach 1.8, have an operational range of about 1,740 miles, carry 16,300 pounds of combat load, and function in conditions with strong electronic warfare countermeasures.

Initial plans assumed the Su-75 prototype would make its maiden flight in 2023 and mass production would begin in 2026. However, this has not occurred. The Su-75 prototype remains incomplete, and there is a lack of interest in the Russian aircraft. This contrasts with the situation for American F-35 fighters, which the Su-75 was meant to rival. Greece has recently confirmed its intention to purchase the F-35A, submitting a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) to the American side. This makes Athens the 19th country to decide to purchase this aircraft.