Russia pressures India to opt for struggling Su‑75 over Mig‑29
The Russians are still experiencing issues with the Su-75 fighter jet, which is intended to counter the American F-35. While the list of countries interested in acquiring the F-35 continues to expand, the Su-75 has garnered minimal interest. Russia evidently wants 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 developing the Su-75 fighter jet. India, recalling the complications with the PAK FA programme—specifically, the construction of the Su-57 fighter jet, which faced issues regarding technology transfer and machine specifications—has shown little enthusiasm. Additionally, India is developing two of its indigenous fighter jets, the AMCA and Tejas MK-2.
Su-75 Checkmate - Russia's aerial dilemma
Potential buyers are also deterred by the fact that, to date, Russia has not produced a single Su-75 prototype. At the beginning of 2024, Rostec, responsible for the machine's development, only announced that the fighter jet had undergone technical changes aimed at cost optimisation, increasing its competitiveness and market attractiveness.
The Su-75, a lightweight, fifth-generation Russian fighter jet, was first unveiled in 2021. The Russians showcased its design and model during the MAKS 2021 International Aviation and Space Show. They also announced that the aircraft would be built using stealth technology, capable of flying at a speed of Mach 1.8, have an operational range of about 2,800 kilometres, be able to carry 7,400 kilograms of combat load, and function in conditions with strong electronic warfare countermeasures.
Initial plans assumed that the Su-75 prototype would make its maiden flight in 2023 and mass production would start in 2026. However, this has not happened. The Su-75 prototype remains incomplete, and there is a lack of interest in the Russian aircraft. In contrast, the American F-35 fighters, which the Su-75 was supposed to rival, are gaining traction. Greece has just 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 commit to purchasing this aircraft.
