Moscow: Ahead of the signing of a contract for the joint development of fifth generation fighter aircraft (FGFA), the leading Russian manufacturer Sukhoi has opened its office in the Indian capital.

“India and Russia are to shortly sign the general contract for the joint development of fifth generation fighter and the New Delhi office will facilitate speedy implementation of the project,” Sukhoi CEO Mikhail Pogosyan said.

The FGFA based on Sukhoi’s secret PAKFA project is expected to make its maiden flight later this year. This will be the second major Indo-Russian joint venture after the supersonic cruise missile BrahMos.

In October 2007, India and Russia signed the FGFA agreement under which keeping in view the Indian Air Force’s specific requirements a lighter version would be developed for India.

Indian experts will take part in all the developmental stages, including the development of new generation weapon systems for the combat aircraft.

In the fifth generation fighter aircraft, Russia and Indian would invest 50% each. Though yet no final cost figures have been made public, the joint venture project is estimated to cost over $5 billions.