From AK-203 to Su-57: Russia Maps Out Expanded Defense Production in India

Russia has outlined a significant expansion of its “Make in India” defense footprint, mapping a path from the current joint production of AK-203 rifles to the future co-production of the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter.
Ambassador Denis Alipov praised the existing “shared achievements,” which also include BrahMos missiles, Su-30 MKI jets, T-90 tanks, and naval frigates, all being produced in India. He pledged that this collaboration “will continue to expand.”
The next major step, Alipov announced, is to “move confidently toward local production of the Su-57,” a move that would also support India’s own AMCA fighter program.
This defense push comes as a clear signal of support after Donald Trump claimed India would stop buying Russian oil. The US has also imposed tariffs on India, partly as a penalty for this trade.
Russia and India both refuted Trump’s claim. The MEA cited “national interest,” while Alipov defended the oil as “beneficial.” The expanded defense offer underlines Russia’s commitment as a long-term, all-weather partner.