Reports noted that Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has negotiated for a 25 per cent work share in the design and development of the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA), with Russia’s Sukhoi Corporation. HAL will work on critical software, including the mission computer, navigation system, most of the cockpit displays, the counter measure dispensing (CMD) system, and carry out modifications to enable the aircraft to be a twin-seater plane.

India and Russia had signed an Intergovernmental Agreement for the joint development and joint production of the aircraft in 2007. The FGPA, known as PAK FA in Russia, is expected to cost around $8-10 billion. Both sides are expected to induct around 250 planes each.1

• 1. Ajai Shukla, ‘India to develop 25% of fifth generation fighter’, Business Standard, January 6, 2009.