Which fighter jet should India choose SU-57 or F-35 ?

Here's a brief comparison between the F-35 Lightning II (US) and Su-57 Felon (Russia) based on the key parameters you've asked for:


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1. Payload Capacity

F-35:

Max internal + external payload: ~18,000 lbs (8,160 kg)

Internal weapons bay (for stealth missions) carries ~5,700 lbs


Su-57:

Max payload: ~22,000 lbs (10,000 kg)

Also supports internal and external weapons

Slightly larger payload, but with trade-offs in stealth when using external hardpoints



Verdict: Su-57 has higher payload capacity, but F-35 manages payload better in stealth mode.


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2. Flying Hours / Reliability

F-35:

High operational reliability, in use by multiple countries

Avg flying hours: 8,000+ hours per airframe

Supported by robust logistics and training ecosystem


Su-57:

Limited operational history, fewer units in service

Estimated lifespan: ~6,000-6,500 hours

Still undergoing refinement and not widely tested



Verdict: F-35 wins in reliability and proven flight hours.


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3. Technology / Avionics

F-35:

Best-in-class stealth, sensor fusion, data sharing

AESA radar, distributed aperture system, advanced electronic warfare

Strong interoperability with NATO forces


Su-57:

Good stealth (but not at F-35 level), powerful IRST (infrared search and track)

Advanced but less mature avionics suite

Emphasizes maneuverability + speed + lower cost



Verdict: F-35 leads in tech integration, stealth, and network-centric warfare.


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4. Speed & Maneuverability

F-35:

Max speed: Mach 1.6 (1,960 km/h)

Designed for stealth and sensor fusion more than raw speed


Su-57:

Max speed: Mach 2.0 (2,470 km/h)

Supermaneuverable with thrust vectoring

Better dogfight agility



Verdict: Su-57 is faster and more agile in close combat.


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Best for India in the Current Scenario?

F-35 Pros for India:

Superior stealth, interoperability with Western allies, battle-tested

Better suited for modern networked warfare


Su-57 Pros for India:

Potentially cheaper, better agility

Easier logistics with Russia, but tech transfer could be limited



BUT: India's experience with Russian platforms like Su-30MKI shows issues with maintenance and spares. Also, Russia is facing sanctions, limiting long-term supply chains.


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Conclusion:

F-35 is overall the better fighter jet in terms of stealth, tech, reliability, and multirole capability.
For India, if strategic alignment with the West continues and cost is manageable, F-35 would be the better long-term investment, especially to counter threats from China and for joint ops with the U.S., France, etc.

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