Russian Defence Minister Anatoly Serdykov said: “The
final certification for the aircraft is awaited. All technical issues
have been handled and the production should start by 2020.”
The advanced stealth
aircraft FGFA is expected to compete with the US F-22 Raptor, presently
the world's only fifth generation fighter, and the under-development
F-35 Lightning-II, at an estimated cost of $35 billion.
The
Preliminary Design contract for the project was signed in 2010 and the
two sides are in “hectic consultations” to freeze the design of this
highly advance fighter.
As per US
classifications, aircraft in service from 1980 to 2010, or based on the
designs of the 70s are categorised as 4th generation aircraft.
However, 5th generation aircraft are more advanced with better stealth
capabilities and higher speed potential in comparison to the former. The
FGFA is being developed under Sukhoi's PAK-FA project. The Indian
aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) is its Indian partner.
The
30 tonne fighter jet will have very advanced avionics, stealth to
increase survivability and enhanced lethality. The aircraft is expected
to enter service in the 13th plan (2017-2022) period around 2019. So
far, the Indian side has put aside $250 million for the Preliminary
Design Contract phase. India will be responsible for developing software
for on-board computer systems, aircraft self-defence systems, and a
host of other important components.
While
India is developing its own two seater version of the FGFA, Russia's
version is single seater jet. The IAF alone plans to acquire 214 of the
combat jets and the option to acquire more has been kept open. The IAF
is looking for 166 single seater and 48 twin-seater versions of the
aircraft.
