[Jyotishi]

According to numerous readers’ comments at the source, this deal will simply enrich a bunch of corrupt politicians and India will get Russian flying coffins once again.

[Rockingham]

The sordid history of Russian-Indian arms deals forces that conclusion, as does the deeply corrupt nature of India's government and its arms procurement process. Eventually, the Indian Air Force will get new fighter aircraft of some sort, but a modern, stealthy air defense and strike capability against regional adversaries China and Pakistan is implausible.

In any event, India must soon ponder how to cope with the next stage in the evolution of air warfare -- autonomous, stealthy, unmanned combat aircraft. India will then have to turn to US and European suppliers if it wishes reliable, deliverable aircraft and control systems.