Image Credits - Bulgarian Military
Russia’s endeavour to advance its fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-75 ‘Checkmate’ single-engine combat aircraft program faces a financial hurdle, prompting discussions on potential partnerships. Last year, talks were initiated with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and now, India has emerged as a potential collaborator. ROSTEC, the Russian state-owned technology giant, has disclosed substantial cost reductions in the Su-75 project, possibly influenced by India’s interest.
Despite the potential benefits, retired Indian Marshal Anil Khosla has cautioned against hasty commitments. He emphasizes the need for a detailed cost-benefit analysis by New Delhi before entering any partnership. Khosla underscores the importance of ensuring a strategic assessment that mutually benefits both parties involved. This caution comes at a time when India is actively working on its ambitious Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project, a significant investment for the country’s defence capabilities.
India’s FGFA project is already in progress, and New Delhi has vested considerable resources in its success. The project aims to bolster India’s defence capabilities with an advanced fighter jet. However, the question arises whether a potential alliance with Russia, a complex geopolitical partner, could impact India’s local project adversely.
Despite these considerations, Russia remains committed to seeking collaboration for the Su-75 ‘Checkmate’ project. While India is a potential partner, Denis Manturov, the Minister of Industry and Trade, emphasizes that Moscow is exploring opportunities with other foreign clients as well. The Su-75 project has undergone modifications based on customer feedback, showcasing Russia’s responsiveness to potential partners’ needs.
ROSTEC strategically showcased the Su-75 at the World Defence Show 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aiming to draw interest from potential partners or customers in the Middle East region. Russia has consistently highlighted the Middle East’s significance in the development and trade of its armaments.
Sukhoi, a part of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) within ROSTEC, is actively working on the first functional prototype of the Su-75 ‘Checkmate.’ The plan is for the prototype to be ready this year, with scheduled tests commencing next year. The Su-75 is envisioned in three variants: a single-seater, two-seater, and unmanned aircraft, catering to diverse operational requirements.
In terms of stealth performance, the Su-75 is set to feature an enhanced anti-radar coating paint scheme. This scheme aims to camouflage the aircraft effectively, making it challenging for radars to detect and visually confusing to the human eye, particularly under cloudy weather conditions.