Sukhoi Su-57

Sukhoi

Industry	Aerospace, Defense
Founded	1939
Headquarters	Moscow , Russia
Products	Military aircraft, including Su-57 fighter jet

"SU-57" redirects here. For other uses, see SU-57 (disambiguation).

The Sukhoi Su-57 (Russian: Сухой Су-57; NATO reporting name: Felon) is a twin-engine stealth multirole fighter developed by Sukhoi. Originating from the PAK FA program (Russian: ПАК ФА), which began in 1999, the aircraft was designed as a modern and cost-effective successor to the earlier MFI projects (Mikoyan Project 1.44/1.42). Internally designated by Sukhoi as T-50, the Su-57 represents Russia's inaugural military platform built with stealth capabilities, intended to serve as the foundation for a series of stealth combat aircraft.

This fighter jet is engineered to perform diverse roles including air-to-air combat and strikes against ground and naval targets. It integrates stealth features, exceptional maneuverability, supercruise ability, advanced avionics systems, and a substantial weapons payload. The United States has indicated that the Su-57 will likely be nuclear-capable through deployment of a missile akin to the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal. Expected to replace the Mikoyan MiG-29 and Sukhoi Su-27 within Russian forces, it has also been offered on the international market. Although its maiden flight occurred in 2010, development faced extensive delays due to various structural and technical challenges encountered during testing, including a fatal crash involving the initial production model prior to delivery.

Following multiple postponements, the Su-57 was officially inducted into service with the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) in December 2020. It has reportedly seen limited deployment during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Origins

In 1979, the Soviet Union identified the necessity for a new generation of fighter aircraft designed to enter operational service during the 1990s. This initiative was named the I-90 (Russian: И-90, an abbreviation for short for: Истребитель 1990–х годов, lit. 'Fighter of the 1990s'), which called for a "multifunctional" (or multirole) fighter capable of significant ground attack missions. The objective was to eventually succeed the MiG-29 and Su-27 in frontline tactical aviation. To fulfill these goals, two projects were initiated: the larger MFI (Russian: МФИ, standing for short for: Многофункциональный фронтовой истребитель, lit. 'Multifunctional Frontline Fighter') and the smaller LFI (Russian: ЛФИ, derived from Russian: Л short for: Лёгкий, lit. 'Light'), with conceptual development commencing in 1983. The MFI project was assigned to Mikoyan, which began work on its MiG 1.44/1.42 prototype. Although not part of the MFI initiative, Sukhoi launched its own effort in 1983 focused on next-generation fighter technologies, culminating in the forward-swept wing experimental aircraft S-32, later renamed S-37 and eventually the Su-47.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, financial constraints caused repeated postponements of the MFI project, delaying the maiden flight of the MiG 1.44/1.42 prototype until 2000—nine years later than planned. Due to escalating expenses, both MFI and LFI programs were ultimately terminated. Subsequently, the Russian Ministry of Defence initiated a fresh next-generation fighter program in 1999 called PAK FA or I-21, with a formal competition announced in April 2001. Given Russia's economic difficulties at that time, this program aimed to reduce costs by developing a single multirole fifth-generation fighter capable of replacing both Su-27 and MiG-29 models. Additional cost reductions were sought by targeting an aircraft size between that of the Su-27 and MiG-29, with an operational weight significantly lighter than the MiG MFI's 28.6 tonnes (63,000 lb) and Su-47's 26.8 tonnes (59,000 lb).

Sukhoi's strategy for the PAK FA contest contrasted sharply with Mikoyan's approach; while Mikoyan envisioned a consortium involving all three design bureaus (Mikoyan, Sukhoi, and Yakovlev) with leadership assigned to the winning team, Sukhoi proposed to lead from inception under a comprehensive collaboration agreement encompassing all stages—from propulsion and avionics suppliers to research institutions. Moreover, their design philosophies diverged: Mikoyan's E-721 was smaller and more cost-effective, featuring a typical takeoff weight between 16–17 tonnes (35,000–37,000 lb) and powered by two Klimov VK-10M engines delivering 10–11 tonnes (98.1–108 kN, 22,000–24,300 lbf) of thrust each. Conversely, Sukhoi's T-50 was designed larger with enhanced capabilities, aiming for a takeoff weight around 22–23 tonnes (49,000–51,000 lb), driven by two Lyulka-Saturn AL-41F1 engines producing thrust near 14.5 tonnes (142 kN, 32,000 lbf) each.

In April 2002, Sukhoi was chosen by the Ministry of Defence as the winner of the PAK FA competition and appointed as lead design bureau for the new fighter project. Sukhoi’s track record during the 1990s—including successful development of multiple Su-27 variants and strong export performance—contributed to its financial stability and influenced this decision. According to Russian Air Force Commander-in-Chief Vladimir Mikhaylov, flight testing was initially scheduled to commence in 2007. Meanwhile, Mikoyan continued independently developing its E-721 under the designation LMFS (Russian: ЛМФС, short for short for: Лёгкий многофункциональный фронтовой самолёт, lit. 'Light Multifunctional Frontline Aircraft').

Research and development

The PAK FA's research and development initiative was known as Stolitsa (Russian: Столица, lit. 'Capital city'). In 2002, Alexander Davidenko was appointed as the chief designer of the T-50 project at Sukhoi. Production of the advanced multi-role fighter was assigned to the Novosibirsk Aircraft Production Association (NAPO) and Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Production Association (KnAAZ), with final assembly taking place at KnAAZ in Komsomol'sk-on-Amur. Following a competitive selection process in 2003, several organizations were chosen to develop the avionics suite for the PAK FA. These included the Tekhnokompleks Scientific and Production Center, Ramenskoye Instrument Building Design Bureau, Tikhomirov Scientific Research Institute of Instrument Design (NIIP), Ural Optical and Mechanical Plant (UOMZ) located in Yekaterinburg, the Polet company in Nizhny Novgorod, and the Central Scientific Research Radio Engineering Institute based in Moscow. In April 2004, NPO Lyulka-Saturn (now NPO Saturn) was contracted to develop the AL-41F1 engines, designated izdeliye 117.

Sukhoi utilized existing aircraft platforms as experimental testbeds for various systems and technologies; for instance, the Su-47 was employed to evaluate internal weapons bays, while prototypes of the Su-27M tested flight control systems and engine performance. To mitigate development risks and distribute costs more effectively, as well as to provide an interim capability between current fourth generation aircraft and the new design, Sukhoi integrated some of the T-50’s advancements—such as propulsion units and select avionics—into an enhanced Su-27 variant named T-10BM (Russian: БМ, an abbreviation for Russian: большая модернизация, lit. 'Major Modernization'). This model was procured by the Russian Ministry of Defence in 2009 and entered active service under the designation Su-35S in 2014.

By December 2004, the conceptual design and aerodynamic configuration of the T-50 had been finalized and received approval from the Ministry of Defence. Government funding commenced in 2005 and saw a significant increase in 2006 during detailed design phases. On August 8, 2007, Alexander Zelin, then Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Air Force, announced via Russian media that development had reached completion and that construction of initial flight test aircraft would commence, with plans for three operational prototypes by 2009.Template:Fix/category The aircraft’s design received formal approval in 2009.Template:Fix/category In July 2017, the T-50 was officially designated as Su-57.

From early on in the PAK FA programme, Russia pursued international collaboration to bolster financial resources and secure substantial export contracts. On October 18, 2007, Russia entered into an agreement with India for joint development between Sukhoi and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) of a derivative known as the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA). By September 2010, both nations agreed on a preliminary design contract involving equal investments of $6 billion each; a memorandum of understanding formalizing this was signed in December that year. The FGFA’s development timeline was projected at eight to ten years. However, by 2014 concerns were raised by the Indian Air Force regarding performance metrics, cost-effectiveness, and distribution of workshare. India determined that the aircraft did not fulfill its operational requirements and ultimately withdrew from the partnership in 2018. Specific issues cited included limited stealth capabilities confined primarily to a frontal arc of approximately sixty degrees—reducing its superiority over existing fourth-generation fighters—and absence of supercruise capability—a hallmark feature among other fifth-generation fighters. Despite this setback, Sukhoi continued advancing development efforts on the Su-57 while actively marketing it internationally. The aircraft was promoted during events such as the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition held in 2019. The export version, designated Su-57E, was officially introduced at MAKS air show on August 28, 2019.

Prototyping

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Su-57 prototype displayed at the MAKS-2011 Air Show

The initial flight of the T-50 experienced multiple delays from its original early 2007 schedule due to undisclosed technical difficulties. By August 2009, Alexander Zelin admitted that unresolved issues persisted concerning the engine and technical research. On 28 February 2009, Sukhoi's general director, Mikhail Pogosyan, stated that the airframe was nearing completion and anticipated the first prototype would be ready by August 2009. Later, on 20 August 2009, Pogosyan projected the maiden flight would occur before the end of that year. Konstantin Makiyenko, deputy director of the Moscow-based Centre for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies, remarked that despite setbacks, the aircraft was expected to fly by January or February, with serial production anticipated within five to ten years.

Further postponements in flight tests arose after Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov declared in December 2009 that initial trials would commence in 2010. The first taxiing test concluded successfully on 24 December 2009, and the prototype T-50-1 completed its inaugural flight on 29 January 2010. Piloted by Sukhoi test pilot Sergey Bogdan, this initial flight lasted 47 minutes and took place at KnAAPO's Dzemgi Airport located in the Russian Far East. Progress in prototype construction was slower than initially forecast; by late October 2013, over 450 flights had been conducted involving five aircraft within the test program.

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Su-57 prototype ascending post-takeoff, 2011

In total, ten flying prototypes along with three non-flying models were produced for preliminary flight evaluations and state testing. The program originally intended to produce up to six prototypes prior to entering serial production; however, testing revealed insufficient fatigue life in early models due to structural cracks developing in the airframe.

As a result, a structural redesign was implemented featuring increased use of composite materials, reinforced airframe components to satisfy full lifecycle standards, an extended tail "sting," and a marginally larger wingspan. The sixth flying prototype marked the first "second stage" airframe following these modifications, whereas the initial five were classified as "first stage" aircraft requiring further structural reinforcement to continue testing. The final two flying prototypes were production-standard Su-57 units equipped with complete mission systems. Although the redesign mitigated weight increases caused by strengthening requirements of the original design, the aircraft's typical takeoff weight still rose to around 25 tonnes (55,000 lb). Testing challenges and incidents led to repeated program delays, postponing delivery of the first production aircraft from an initial target of 2015 to 2020.

Procurement

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Sukhoi Su-57 in flight with landing gear deployed, 2010

Initial procurement intentions for the PAK FA underwent significant reductions and postponements compared to earlier projections. Back in 2011, the Ministry of Defence aimed to acquire an initial batch of 10 aircraft for evaluation following 2012, with plans to secure 60 production-standard units after 2015. These targets were further detailed within the State Armament Programme 2011–2020 (GPV-2020), anticipating serial manufacturing to commence in 2016. The Ministry intended to procure 52 aircraft by 2020 and an additional 150–160 by 2025, alongside export contracts for 250–300 FGFA expected to start in 2017.

However, by 2015, these ambitions were substantially curtailed due to technical challenges during testing phases, India's uncertain involvement in the collaboration, and Russia’s economic difficulties stemming from international sanctions following the annexation of Crimea and declining oil revenues. That year, Deputy Defence Minister Yury Borisov announced a slowdown in production, scaling back the initial order to just 12 fighters. The Russian Air Force planned to maintain large fleets of upgraded fourth-generation jets like the Su-35S and Su-30SM instead. In 2017, Borisov indicated that the PAK FA was likely to enter operational service in 2018 and be incorporated into the subsequent State Armament Programme from 2018 to 2027 (GPV-2027).

On 30 June 2018, an agreement was reached for an order of 12 aircraft, with deliveries postponed again until 2019. The first units were slated for deployment at the Lipetsk Air Center. Concurrently, Borisov praised the Su-35S as being on par with the Su-57 except for stealth capabilities, while offering a more cost-effective option. Due to the significantly higher expense associated with the Su-57 compared to the Su-35S and Su-30SM, large-scale production was deferred until operational necessity justified it.

During the International Military-Technical Forum «ARMY-2018» on 22 August 2018, a contract was signed between the Defence Ministry and Sukhoi for two serial Su-57 fighters scheduled for delivery in 2019 and 2020. In January 2019, officials expressed hopes of finalizing a second contract for an additional 13 aircraft within that year.

A major shift occurred on 15 May 2019 when President Vladimir Putin announced plans to acquire a total of 76 Su-57 jets for the Aerospace Forces by 2028. This decision followed successful negotiations that reduced the unit cost by approximately 20%. The formal contract for these aircraft was signed on 27 June 2019 at the International Military-Technical Forum «ARMY-2019». That same month, Boris Obnosov, General Director of Tactical Missiles Corporation (KRTV), confirmed a contract had been signed for serial production of ammunition tailored for the Su-57 fleet.

Production of serial aircraft commenced in July 2019, with initial deliveries expected by year-end. After a crash involving the first production model, the Russian Aerospace Forces received their first operational Su-57 in December 2020. By May 2022, four additional units had been delivered; however, overall production progressed more slowly than anticipated, culminating in a total of six aircraft delivered by year’s end. The inauguration of a new production line in 2022 accelerated output, resulting in twelve new aircraft delivered by the close of 2023. According to Yuri Slyusar, another twenty units are projected for manufacture in 2024, which would position the Su-57 as Russia’s most extensively produced jet fighter.Template:Fix/category

Further advancements

Back in 2004, Sukhoi projected that the Su-57 could serve as the foundation for a series of combat aircraft tailored for the Russian Aerospace Forces, much like the established Su-27 family. Under the development initiative named Megapolis (Russian: Мегаполис, lit. 'Megapolis'), the company is working on an upgraded version called the Su-57M. This variant enhances the original Su-57 by integrating advanced mission systems, boosting reliability and ease of maintenance, incorporating electromechanical control systems, and equipping it with the new NPO Saturn izdeliye 30 engines, also known as AL-51F-1.

Although initial efforts began earlier, the official contract was finalized in 2018. The improved model was scheduled to commence flight testing in 2022, with mass production anticipated during the mid-2020s. Starting from 2017, the second T-50 prototype was utilized to evaluate the new izdeliye 30 engine; meanwhile, in 2018, the third prototype underwent configuration for collaborative testing alongside the Okhotnik UCAV. Concurrently, development is in progress for a variant capable of carrier-based operations.

Sukhoi has also leveraged Su-57 technology to create a mockup of an affordable lightweight single-engine fighter known as the LTS (Russian: ЛТС, an abbreviation for Russian: Лёгкий тактический самолёт, lit. 'Light Tactical Aircraft'). At MAKS-2021 in Moscow, Sukhoi unveiled this LTS mockup, dubbed Checkmate, which incorporates numerous systems from the Su-57 including its radar, primary weapons bay, vertical fins, and wing design.

As of As of 2024, international sanctions imposed during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine have significantly hindered Russia's ability to procure Western avionics and microelectronics—critical components for advanced fighter and attack aircraft cockpits.

The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) announced that an enhanced Su-57 performed its maiden flight on 21 October 2022. It remains uncertain if this particular airframe corresponds to the Su-57M model since reports indicated that the "second-stage engine"—a reference to the Izdeliye 30—was not installed. The flight was piloted by Russian test pilot Sergey Bogdan.

Design

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Top-down view of the Su-57, displaying an early pre-production camouflage pattern reminiscent of the Su-35

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Aerodynamic condensation seen on a pre-production Su-57 at the MAKS-2015 Air Show

The Su-57 represents a fifth-generation multirole fighter jet and marks Russia's inaugural operational stealth combat aircraft. Beyond stealth capabilities, the design prioritizes exceptional maneuverability across all axes, large internal weapon bays to support diverse mission roles, and sophisticated sensor suites including active phased-array radar coupled with advanced sensor fusion to enable extensive automation.

Sukhoi based the Su-57's conceptual framework on the F-22 as a reference for a stealthy supermaneuverable fighter. However, the design team sought to overcome perceived drawbacks such as the F-22’s inability to vector thrust for roll and yaw control, limited weapons bay space between engines restricting payload capacity, and challenges in recovering from post-stall conditions if thrust vectoring failed. Specifically, Sukhoi viewed the F-22 as unsuitable for PAK FA’s multirole demands due to its payload configuration heavily weighted toward air-to-air missiles.

The airframe features a broad blended wing-body design with two widely spaced engines. It employs fully movable horizontal and vertical stabilizers; the vertical fins are angled outward to reduce radar cross-section. The trapezoidal wings include leading edge flaps, ailerons, and flaperons. Thrust vectoring nozzles complement large leading-edge root extensions that shift the aerodynamic center forward, enhancing static instability and overall agility. These extensions are equipped with adjustable leading-edge vortex controllers (LEVCONs) that manage vortex formation and improve trim and high angle-of-attack flight characteristics, including rapid stall recovery even if thrust vectoring malfunctions. For air braking, the control surfaces operate in concert: ailerons deflect upward while flaperons move downward and vertical stabilizers angle inward to increase drag. Structurally, alloys constitute most of the airframe—40.5–44.5% aluminum alloys and 18.6% titanium alloys—while composites make up approximately 22–26% of structural mass and cover nearly 70% of external surfaces.

Conceived from inception as a multirole platform, the Su-57 offers significant internal payload volume capable of accommodating several large air-to-ground munitions. Its armament is carried internally within two tandem main weapons bays situated in the spacious ventral section between widely spaced engine nacelles, supplemented by smaller side bays encased in bulged triangular fairings near the wing roots. Internal carriage reduces aerodynamic drag compared to external stores and preserves stealth characteristics.

The aircraft’s marked static instability—also known as relaxed stability—in pitch and yaw axes is managed by an advanced KSU-50 flight control system combined with canted thrust vectoring nozzles, resulting in exceptional departure resistance and superior maneuverability across all axes. This enables execution of extreme maneuvers such as Pugachev's Cobra, the bell maneuver, and flat spins with minimal altitude loss. Its aerodynamic design coupled with powerful engines allows it to reach speeds up to Mach 2 and sustain supersonic cruise (supercruise) at approximately Mach 1.3 without afterburners, providing a notable tactical advantage by extending missile and bomb effective ranges compared to earlier generation fighters. Equipped with substantial fuel capacity, its supersonic range exceeds 1,500 km (930 mi), more than doubling that of the Su-27. Additionally, an extendable refueling probe enhances its operational range further.

Stealth

As the inaugural stealth-focused aircraft in Russian military aviation, the Su-57 integrates multiple techniques to minimize its radar detectability. Comparable to stealth fighters like the F-22, this jet arranges its planform edges strategically to decrease its radar cross-section (RCS); the wings’ leading and trailing edges, control surfaces, and the serrated contours of skin panels are meticulously angled to limit radar wave reflections. Armaments are housed internally within dedicated weapons bays inside the fuselage, and antennas are embedded beneath the skin surface to maintain the aircraft’s low-observable profile. Additionally, coatings of radar absorbent material (RAM) absorb radar signals, diminishing their return to the emitter.

The infrared search-and-track sensor is designed to rotate backward when idle, with its rear side also treated with RAM. To reduce the prominent RCS caused by the engine face, RAM lines the inlet duct walls, while partially concealed serpentine ducts obscure most of the engines' compressor face and inlet guide vanes (IGV). The exposed portion of the engine face is further shielded by a slanted blocker grid positioned ahead of the IGV at a distance ranging from 0.7 to 1.2 times the duct diameter, employing a concept similar to that used on the Boeing F/A-18E/F.

The canopy incorporates metal oxide layers between 70 and 90 nm thick with enhanced radar absorption properties, lowering cockpit radar returns by approximately 30% while shielding the pilot from ultraviolet and thermal radiation. Production standards for assembly are considerably more stringent than those applied to earlier Russian fighters, aimed at enhancing stealth performance.

The synergy between airframe geometry and RAM on production models reportedly reduces the aircraft's RCS by a factor of thirty compared to the Su-27. Sukhoi’s patent documentation for the T-50’s stealth features indicates an objective to achieve an average RCS between 0.1 and 1 m², contrasting with the Su-27’s roughly 10 to 15 m² RCS. The Su-57 prioritizes frontal stealth, with most RCS reduction measures concentrated in its forward hemisphere; however, its aft fuselage shaping is less optimized for radar evasion than American stealth designs like the F-22 and F-35. This likely reflects cost-saving considerations alongside Russia’s tactical doctrine of operating these jets within protective integrated air defense systems.

Similar to other stealth aircraft, the Su-57's low observability features are primarily effective against super-high-frequency radars operating between 3 and 30 GHz, typically found on other fighter jets. Due to effects such as Rayleigh scattering and resonance phenomena, detection by low-frequency radar systems—used in weather radar and early-warning radar installations—is more probable because of their longer wavelengths and larger physical size. However, these radars tend to be bulky, vulnerable to clutter, and provide less precise targeting. While test units have been criticized for inconsistent build quality—especially those showcased in flight demonstrations or static exhibits—production aircraft generally exhibit improved manufacturing standards.

On 4 November 2024, the fourth Su-57 prototype, designated T-50-4, was publicly displayed statically at China's Zhuhai Airshow. During a refueling stop in Taiyuan city, members of the public had close access for photography and video documentation. Footage shared on social media exposed several quality concerns including numerous screws and rivets that were plainly visible and not flush with adjacent panels. Certain sections appeared misaligned with noticeable gaps along fuselage joints. The airframe’s design did not fully support low observability standards and exhibited signs of substandard workmanship. Different bolt types were observed on the tail assembly—including single-slotted, Phillips head, and hexagonal bolts—while rivets were used instead of screws in some areas to lower radar cross section (RCS). By comparison metrics, while the F-35 has an RCS near 0.005 square meters and the F-22 around 0.0005 square meters, estimates place the Su-57’s RCS between 0.1 and 0.5 square meters. Additionally, it was noted that one weapons bay door failed to close completely.

Engines

The Su-57 is equipped with two NPO Lyulka-Saturn izdeliye 117 turbofan engines, also known as AL-41F1, which are advanced and enhanced derivatives of the Saturn AL-31 series. These powerplants deliver a dry thrust of 9 tonnes (88.3 kN, 19,840 lbf), an afterburner thrust of 14.5 tonnes (142.2 kN, 31,970 lbf), and a "special" emergency thrust rating of 15 tonnes (147.1 kN, 33,070 lbf). Featuring full authority digital engine control (FADEC), the engines are fully integrated with the aircraft’s flight control system to optimize handling and agility. The AL-41F1 shares a close lineage with the Lyulka-Saturn izdeliye 117S (AL-41F1S) installed on the Su-35S; however, the primary distinction lies in the latter’s separate engine management system.

The propulsion system incorporates thrust vectoring technology where each nozzle’s rotational axis is angled, a design reminiscent of that on the Su-30MKI and also utilized on the Su-35S. Although the nozzles vector in a single plane only, their canting enables differential thrust vectoring that generates roll and yaw moments, thereby allowing the aircraft to exert thrust vectoring forces across all three axes—pitch, yaw, and roll. The engine intakes feature adjustable ramps to enhance supersonic airflow efficiency and retractable mesh screens designed to protect against foreign object damage (FOD), especially during operations from short or unimproved runways. In 2014, the Indian Air Force publicly expressed reservations concerning the AL-41F1’s reliability and performance, particularly noting its lack of supercruise capability—a feature common among other fifth-generation fighters. Notably, during the MAKS-2011 airshow, a Su-57 experienced a compressor stall that necessitated aborting takeoff.

Looking ahead, the Su-57M variant is slated to receive a new powerplant from NPO Saturn in the mid-2020s, designated izdeliye 30 and eventually named AL-51F-1. This next-generation engine is projected to produce approximately 11 tonnes (107.9 kN, 24,300 lbf) of dry thrust and 17 tonnes (167 kN, 37,500 lbf) with afterburner engaged. Besides offering enhanced performance, reliability, and cost-efficiency over its predecessor, the AL-51F-1 will contribute to reduced radar and infrared signatures through features such as glass-fiber plastic inlet guide vanes (IGVs) and a new nozzle design incorporating serrated flaps. In 2023, reports emerged that UEC Saturn is developing an alternative non-axisymmetric "flat" nozzle for the Su-57, with flight testing commencing in late 2024. Since this flat nozzle concept was introduced after Sukhoi completed the Su-57’s design phase, Saturn engineered it to integrate with minimal modifications to the existing airframe.

Armament

The Su-57 features two primary internal weapon bays arranged in tandem, each measuring roughly 4.4 m (14.4 ft) in length and 0.9 m (3.0 ft) in width, complemented by two additional side bays located beneath the fuselage near the wing roots, characterized by triangular fairings. The main bays are equipped with two variants of ejection launchers developed by Vympel: the UVKU-50L designed for missiles up to 300 kg (660 lb), and the UVKU-50U capable of handling munitions weighing as much as 700 kg (1,500 lb). Meanwhile, the side bays utilize VPU-50 launch rails.

In air-to-air engagements, the Su-57 can house four beyond-visual-range missiles within its main weapon compartments and two short-range missiles in the side bays. The main medium-range missile employed is the active radar-guided K/R-77M (izdeliye 180), an enhanced version of the R-77 featuring an AESA seeker, a dual-pulse motor, and conventional rear fins. For close combat, the infrared-guided R-74M2 (izdeliye 760) is used—this is an upgraded iteration of the R-74 with a reduced radar cross-section optimized for internal carriage. Additionally, a newly designed short-range missile designated K-MD (izdeliye 300) is under development to replace the R-74M2. For extended range engagements, the Su-57 can carry two izdeliye 810 missiles per main bay; these represent an evolution of the R-37M with shortened control surfaces and upgraded motor and seeker systems. The earlier R-37M was also capable of external carriage.

When engaging ground targets, the aircraft can internally accommodate precision-guided bombs such as the 250 kg (550 lb) KAB-250 or the larger 500 kg (1,100 lb) KAB-500 within its main weapon bays. The internal payload options also include air-to-ground missiles like the Kh-38M, anti-ship Kh-35U (AS-20 "Kayak"), anti-radiation Kh-58UShK (AS-11 "Kilter"), and cruise missile Kh-69 (formerly Kh-59MK2). For operations where stealth is less critical, up to six external hardpoints allow carriage of most standard Russian tactical fighter armaments. According to U.S. assessments, the Su-57 is anticipated to be capable of nuclear delivery via a missile comparable to the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal, which is designed with compact dimensions for internal bay storage.Template:Unreliable source?

An internally mounted 9A1-4071K (GSh-30-1) 30 mm autocannon with a magazine capacity of 150 rounds is positioned near the right LEVCON root. This cannon boasts an effective engagement range of approximately 800 m (870 yd) against airborne targets and up to 1,800 m (2,000 yd) when engaging surface threats.

Cockpit

The Su-57 features a glass cockpit devoid of traditional analogue instruments, instead presenting data on two primary 38 cm (15 in) multi-functional LCD screens arranged similarly to those in the Su-35S. Complementing these main displays is a smaller multi-functional screen alongside a digital control panel. A wide-angle (30° by 22°) head-up display (HUD) further enhances pilot visibility. Control inputs are managed via a joystick and dual throttles, with essential functions accessible through hands-on throttle and stick (HOTAS) operation. The aircraft canopy consists of two parts, with the rear section sliding forward to lock securely in place. To minimize radar detectability, the canopy is coated with metallized layers.Template:Fix/category The Su-57’s integrated computing system incorporates the Chip "1890VM8Ya" developed by FGU FSC NIISI (in Russian).Template:Fix/category

The fighter employs the NPP Zvezda K-36D-5 ejection seat combined with the SOZhE-50 life support system, which includes an anti-g suit and oxygen generation apparatus. Pilots wear the ZSh-10B helmet equipped with the NSTsI-50 digital display system, which improves situational awareness through eye-tracking technology and enables target acquisition at high off-boresight angles. The oxygen generation unit, weighing approximately 30 kg (66 lb), supplies an unlimited oxygen flow to the pilot. The life support setup allows pilots to sustain 9-g forces for up to 30 seconds continuously. Additionally, the ejection seat paired with the updated PPK-7 flight suit ensures safe ejection from altitudes ranging from ground level up to 20,000 m (66,000 ft) and speeds between zero and 1,300 km/h (810 mph). Post-ejection survival is supported by an integrated survival kit included within the system.

Avionics

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N036-1-01 X-band AESA radar

A primary technical objective of the PAK FA initiative is the comprehensive integration of avionics components—commonly referred to as sensor fusion—to enhance the pilot's situational awareness while minimizing operational workload. The Su-57’s onboard systems integration is managed by an IUS (Russian: ИУС, an abbreviation for Russian: Информационно-управляющая система, lit. 'Information Management System'), with its computing platform developed by GRPZ in Ryazan. Key avionics elements include the Sh-121 (Russian: Ш-121) multifunctional integrated radio electronic system (MIRES) and the 101KS "Atoll" (Russian: 101КС "Атолл") electro-optical suite. Unlike earlier Sukhoi fighters, Sukhoi itself undertook the IUS systems integration rather than delegating it to Ramenskoye’s RPKB. The integrated avionics package, known as IMA BK (Russian: ИМА БК, short for Russian: Интегрированной модульной авионики боевых комплексов, lit. 'Integrated Modular Avionics Combat Systems'), operates via fiber optic data channels and incorporates over four million lines of software code.

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N036B-1-01 X-band AESA side-looking radar

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N036L-1-01 L-band array

The Sh-121 system includes the N036 Byelka radar and the L402 Himalayas electronic countermeasures (ECM) suite. Developed by Tikhomirov NIIP Institute, the N036 features a primary nose-mounted N036-1-01 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar operating in the X band, also termed active phased array radar (Russian: АФАР, romanized: AFAR, from Russian: Активная фазированная антенная решётка), which contains 1,514 transmit/receive modules. Complementing this are two side-looking N036B-1-01 X-band AESA radars, each with 404 T/R modules, embedded within the forward fuselage cheeks to expand angular detection coverage. The forward antenna is angled rearward to reduce radar signature. These side-mounted arrays also enable the Su-57 to employ beam-steering tactics while maintaining missile guidance capability. Additionally, two N036L-1-01 L-band transceivers are installed on the leading edge flaps of the wings; these serve dual purposes—supporting the N036Sh Pokosnik (Reaper) friend-or-foe identification (IFF) system and facilitating electronic warfare operations. Signal processing from both X- and L-band arrays is handled by N036YeVS and GRPZ Solo-21 computers, substantially improving data quality. The L402 Himalayas ECM suite, produced by the Kaluga Research Radio Engineering Institute, integrates its own antenna arrays alongside those of the N036 radar system; one such array is positioned on the dorsal sting between the twin engines.</ref> Communication redundancy is ensured through the S-111 system, which supports secure radio telephony and encrypted data exchange among aircraft and command centers located on land, sea, or airborne platforms; this system was developed by Production Corporation Polyot.

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101KS-O DIRCM turret

The 101KS "Atoll" electro-optical complex from Urals Optical-Mechanical Plant (UOMZ) comprises several components: 101KS-V infrared search and track (IRST), 101KS-O directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM), 101KS-U ultraviolet missile approach warning sensors (MAWS), 101KS-P thermal imaging for low-altitude flight and landing assistance, and 101KS-N navigation and targeting pod. The IRST sensor is installed on the starboard side ahead of the cockpit and can simultaneously track multiple targets. When idle, its receiver rotates backward with a rear surface coated in radar absorbent material to maintain stealth characteristics. Notably, the Su-57 is pioneering in incorporating a DIRCM system among fighters, with turrets mounted both behind the canopy and beneath the cockpit. Countermeasures such as flares, radar decoys, and single-use programmable ECM transmitters can be deployed from dispensers located in the tail boom between engines.

For navigation during flight, the Su-57 employs the BINS-SP2M inertial navigation system created by Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies (KRET). This system integrates with GLONASS satellite navigation and is managed via the IVS-50 computing unit. In 2016, KRET announced development of a multifunctional video processing system named "Okhotnik" (Hunter), designed to extend target detection ranges and enhance automatic tracking capabilities. A structural health monitoring system continuously evaluates aircraft status in real time by transmitting data through optical fibers woven into composite materials that detect mechanical stress. This innovation facilitates more efficient maintenance scheduling and repair operations. The Su-57 also serves as a platform for testing advanced artificial intelligence applications and manned-unmanned teaming technologies intended for future sixth-generation fighter programs. It has demonstrated autonomous flight capabilities without pilot intervention during trials.

Testing and trials

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Su-57 performing inverted flight

Prior to the inaugural flight of the T-50 prototype, multiple subsystems underwent validation and risk mitigation tests on other aircraft platforms. For instance, on 21 January 2010, an Su-27M was utilized to evaluate the AL-41F1 engine, while a separate aircraft assessed the KSU-50 flight control system. The T-50 prototype completed its initial high-speed taxiing on 21 January 2010, followed by its maiden flight on 29 January 2010. Supersonic flight capabilities were first demonstrated on 14 March 2011 at a testing facility near Komsomolsk-on-Amur.

Testing of the Su-57 included preliminary trials (PI, Russian: ПИ, short for Russian: Предварительные испытания) conducted by Sukhoi at the Gromov Flight Research Institute (LII, Russian: ЛИИ) in Zhukovsky, alongside two phases of joint state trials (GSI, Russian: ГСИ, short for Russian: Государственные совместные испытания) administered by the Ministry of Defence at the 929th State Flight Test Centre (GLITs, Russian: ГЛИЦ) located in Akhtubinsk. Successful completion of GSI-1 confirmed the aircraft's airworthiness, while GSI-2 focused on mission systems and armament validation, ultimately authorizing operational deployment of the Su-57. The preliminary and state trials phases overlapped to some extent.

Initial flight tests exposed significant structural integrity and fatigue concerns with the original T-50 design. When the first two prototypes were revealed publicly at MAKS-2011, their airframes developed cracks despite adhering to a conservative 5–g limit. This led to grounding and extensive structural reinforcement lasting over a year, along with a comprehensive "second stage" redesign of the airframe. Among ten flying and three static T-50 prototypes, the non-flying models were dedicated to static load testing—one each for "first stage" and "second stage" structural configurations—and avionics integration. The initial two flying prototypes focused on flight dynamics and fundamental mechanical systems without mission-specific equipment. From the third prototype onward, mission systems including radar and electronic warfare suites were tested, with each successive aircraft incorporating incremental changes in avionics and sensor layouts. The final pre-production units were outfitted with complete mission systems to validate full integrated avionics functionality.

By February 2014, the first segment of preliminary trials (PI-1) concluded; that same month, the 929th GLITs accepted its initial T-50 at Akhtubinsk for continuation into state trials (GSI). Nonetheless, PI-1 revealed critical issues beyond structural weaknesses; engine malfunctions such as AL-41F1 compressor stalls occurred during MAKS-2011 demonstrations. In June 2014, an in-flight fire severely damaged the fifth prototype leading to its write-off; components from this airframe were used to complete an unfinished "first stage" structure. Both preliminary and state trials experienced delays due to this incident and ongoing structural redesign work. The second phase of preliminary trials (PI-2) extended from 2014 through 2019 primarily utilizing reinforced "first stage" aircraft, while GSI-1 was suspended until updated "second stage" airframes became available in 2016. Armament testing was similarly postponed; external weapons trials commenced in May 2014 whereas internal weapons evaluations began only in March 2016. GSI-1 officially concluded on 8 February 2018 with formal documentation signed in May that year. After more than 3,500 sorties logged, GSI-2 was initially scheduled for completion by 2019 but was deferred until 2020 partly due to a crash involving the first production model in December 2019.

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Su-57 performing a solo demonstration at ARMY-2020 forum

As induction into Russian armed forces progresses, Sukhoi continues development with enhancements for the advanced Su-57M variant. The maiden flight of the izdeliye 30 engine occurred on 5 December 2017 aboard the second prototype (T-50-2, bort no. 052). Additionally, prototypes have been employed for cooperative unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations alongside the Okhotnik UCAV; footage from these joint flights was released by the Ministry of Defence on 27 September 2019. On 28 June 2020, TASS, citing unnamed insiders within the military-industrial complex, disclosed that an experimental 'swarm' operation had been executed involving multiple Su-35 fighters coordinated by an Su-57 acting as a command-and-control node. This networked data sharing substantially enhances combat mission effectiveness and reportedly took place under realistic combat conditions.

Evaluation of Su-57 Combat Performance in Syria

On 21 February 2018, two Su-57 aircraft completed their inaugural international flight, arriving at the Russian-operated Khmeimim air base in Syria. This deployment included not only the Su-57s but also four Sukhoi Su-35 fighters, four Sukhoi Su-25 attack aircraft, and a single Beriev A-50 AEW&C plane. Within three days, reports indicated the arrival of an additional pair of Su-57s in the region. Some analysts expressed concerns over the high-risk nature of this deployment, particularly following drone assaults targeting Khmeimim air base. The brief operational period—lasting only several days—was seen as limiting the mission's strategic value. Coinciding with Russia's Defender of the Fatherland Day, it is suggested that the deployment may have been intended to bolster the president’s state-of-the-nation address. Furthermore, showcasing the aircraft in an active combat zone could serve as a promotional advantage for marketing purposes.

On 1 March 2018, Russian Defence Minister Sergey Shoygu confirmed that the two Su-57s had operated in Syria for two days, successfully completing a series of tests including live combat trials where weapon system performance was evaluated. Later, on 25 May 2018, the Defence Ministry revealed that during the February deployment, a Su-57 launched a cruise missile in combat conditions, likely a Kh-59MK2. Subsequently, on 18 November 2018, an extended video was released by the Defence Ministry featuring flight operations of the fighters and announcing that the Su-57 conducted a total of ten sorties during its Syrian deployment. However, the footage did not specify the exact timing of these test flights.

In December 2019, Chief of the Russian General Staff Valery Gerasimov announced that the Russian Defence Ministry had once again conducted testing of the Su-57 in Syria and reported that all assigned objectives were successfully achieved.

Introduction to Service

On 25 December 2020, the Russian Ministry of Defence declared that the Su-57 had officially been introduced into active service with the delivery of the first production model to an aviation regiment stationed at Lipetsk within the Southern Military District. This initial series of aircraft was designated for military testing, development of operational tactics, and pilot transition training. The 23rd Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment, located at Dzyomgi in the Eastern Military District, is slated to be the first operational unit outfitted with the Su-57, with deliveries expected to commence in 2023. The regiment’s proximity to the KnAAZ manufacturing facility facilitates streamlined maintenance and support for these newly introduced jets. The full complement of 24 Su-57s for this unit is projected to be achieved by 2025.

Deployment during the Russian-Ukrainian Conflict

Main article: Russian invasion of Ukraine

In May 2022, Russian sources reported that Su-57 fighters had been deployed within two to three weeks following the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, conducting missile strikes from beyond the reach of Ukrainian air defense systems. Similar to other Russian combat aircraft, these jets primarily operated from within Russian airspace. By June 2022, RIA Novosti detailed a networked operation involving four Su-57s performing suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) missions over Ukraine, successfully locating and neutralizing Ukrainian air defense assets while demonstrating their low radar detectability in combat scenarios.

On 19 October 2022, then Russian Armed Forces commander in Ukraine, Army General Sergey Surovikin, asserted that the Su-57 had been actively engaged in both aerial combat and ground attack roles during the conflict, reportedly securing kills in both contexts. Subsequent Russian claims suggested that Su-57s had downed a Ukrainian Su-27 fighter and a Su-24 strike aircraft using long-range R-37 missiles. Nevertheless, despite some Su-57s being stationed at Lipetsk and Akhtubinsk for testing and development, no definitive proof has emerged confirming their direct involvement in combat operations. Satellite imagery from late December 2022 revealed five Su-57s deployed at Akhtubinsk air base, approximately 500 kilometers from the Ukrainian front.

On 18 February 2024, a Su-57 accompanied by two Su-35 fighters launched a missile attack employing a stealthy Kh-69 cruise missile against targets within Ukrainian territory, operating over Luhansk Oblast. By May 2024, Ukrainian intelligence reported an escalation in Russian use of Su-57s for strikes across Ukraine, with attacks launched from airspace above Kursk, Bryansk, and occupied areas of Luhansk, utilizing advanced Kh-69 missiles.

On 9 June 2024, Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence claimed responsibility for damaging or destroying two Russian Su-57 jets during a drone strike targeting Akhtubinsk air base in Astrakhan Oblast. Multiple Telegram channels linked to Russian military circles confirmed at least one Su-57 sustained shrapnel damage and criticized the absence of protective hangars for such valuable aircraft. Additional reports indicated ongoing assessments regarding whether the damaged jet could be repaired. High-resolution satellite images from Maxar Technologies displayed a crater adjacent to a Su-57 at Akhtubinsk following the attack.

On 5 October 2024, a Su-57 reportedly engaged and deliberately shot down an errant Russian Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik-B drone approximately 10 miles (16 km) behind Ukrainian lines using an air-to-air missile.

According to The National Interest in November 2024, despite initial reluctance to deploy the Su-57 in combat roles, Russia may increasingly rely on these fighters as attrition rates among its jets continue to outpace production capabilities.

Potential operators

Sukhoi highlights that the primary export benefit of the PAK FA lies in its relatively lower price compared to existing US fifth-generation fighters. Reports indicated that Russia proposed the PAK FA for South Korea’s upcoming advanced fighter program. South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) acknowledged the Sukhoi PAK FA as a contender for the Republic of Korea Air Force’s next-generation fighter (F-X Phase 3); nonetheless, Sukhoi did not submit an official proposal by the January 2012 deadline. In 2013, Russia extended an offer to Brazil to participate in and co-produce a next-generation fighter derived from the Su-57 design. Despite this, Brazil opted to sign an agreement with Sweden’s Saab Group for local assembly of 36 Gripen E fighters for the Brazilian Air Force, foregoing both the Russian Su-57 and French Rafale options.

In May 2019, amid uncertainties surrounding Turkey's involvement in the F-35 program due to its acquisition of the S-400 missile system, Rostec CEO Sergey Chemezov announced Russia’s readiness to collaborate with Turkey on both export and domestic production of the Su-57. Later that year, on 14 September, an Su-57 participated in Istanbul’s Technofest 2019 event. However, on 7 February 2020, President Erdogan declared that Turkey would replace the F-35 not with the Su-57 but with its indigenous fifth-generation TF-X fighter.

On 27 December 2019, Algeria finalized a contract for 14 Su-57 aircraft as part of a broader military procurement deal that also included Su-34 and Su-35 fighters. This agreement reportedly followed a summer 2019 visit by Algerian officials who inspected the Su-57 at the MAKS-2019 air show. Algeria has since confirmed the purchase and aims to receive its first Su-57E by 2025, with deliveries possibly occurring by late 2026. On 18 November 2025, the CEO of Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation announced that two Su-57s had been delivered to an overseas client and were operationally deployed, though he did not specify which nation; estimates suggest Algeria as the likely recipient.

There have been indications that Vietnam might procure the Su-57 to replace its aging fleet of Su-27s; however, formal confirmation remains pending. On 9 July 2021, Vietnam expressed interest in acquiring Su-57 fighters but raised concerns regarding manufacturing quality.

During IDEX 2021, Russia offered Su-57E jets to the United Arab Emirates. At the 2019 Dubai Airshow, Chemezov discussed potential "localization" of parts of the Su-57 supply chain within purchasing countries such as the UAE, India, or Turkey, contingent on their defense industrial capabilities. Nevertheless, concerns over possible sanctions under CAATSA have so far prevented the UAE from committing to a contract with Russia.

In 2021, Russian media reported interest from Iraq’s military leadership in acquiring Su-57s; however, no formal negotiations have been initiated.

As of post-2024, no exports of Su-57 fighters have been completed. It is also reported that export variants are unlikely to be available before the decade’s end despite plans to ramp up production in 2024. Furthermore, ongoing conflict in Ukraine and resulting sanctions have constrained Russia’s capacity to advance development of advanced fighters like the Su-57 and Su-75.

According to TASS news agency citing Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev, contracts for delivering Su-57s to undisclosed foreign customers were signed at the 2024 Zhuhai air show in China.

India

At the outset of the PAK FA initiative, India intended to become a major international purchaser through acquiring the FGFA variant. Initial plans called for procuring 166 single-seat and 48 two-seat fighters; however, this was later revised to 214 single-seat aircraft. By 2012, the intended order size was further scaled down to 144 fighters. In April 2018, India officially withdrew from the FGFA collaboration, citing that the project no longer aligned with its expectations regarding stealth capabilities, combat avionics, radar systems, and sensor technologies. During an interview with the Russian Ministry of Defence's official publication Krasnaya Zvezda (Red Star), Indian Air Force Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa indicated that the Su-57 was not currently under consideration for service induction but could be re-evaluated once it entered operational status with Russia’s Aerospace Forces. Conversely, United Aircraft Corporation's General Director Yuri Slyusar refuted reports of a complete termination, stating that discussions between Russia and India about developing a fifth-generation fighter remain ongoing. Nevertheless, in October 2019, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria clarified that India would not import stealth fighters like the Su-57 and would instead prioritize indigenous projects such as the HAL AMCA.

On 11 February 2025, during the Aero India 2025 airshow, it emerged that Rosoboronexport and United Aircraft Corporation had informally proposed the Su-57E model to the Indian Air Force. According to Reuters, citing sources from Russian industry and Indian defense officials, the offer included manufacturing the aircraft domestically in partnership with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at its Nashik facility, featuring full technology transfer. Production was anticipated to commence as early as 2025 under a long-term cooperative agreement accompanied by plans to upgrade the platform.

On 23 September, ThePrint reported that India is assessing the acquisition of the Su-57 not as a fifth-generation stealth fighter but rather as an interim solution and a platform for long-range strike missions. The initial requirement involves procuring two squadrons directly from Russia, with potential future acquisition of three to five squadrons produced indigenously. This strategy remains in preliminary stages. In September, a Russian delegation comprising officials from Sukhoi Design Bureau and other agencies inspected HAL’s production units including Nashik division (final assembly line for Su-30MKI), Koraput division (licensed production of AL-31FP engines for Su-30MKI), and Strategic Electronics Factory in Kasaragod, Kerala (producer of avionics components such as airborne computers and display processors for Su-30MKI). Subsequently, in October—two months before Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to India—the team submitted their findings to HAL. The report indicated that HAL’s current infrastructure meets approximately half of the production requirements for the Su-57E. HAL is now conducting further evaluations concerning additional investments needed in infrastructure enhancement, advanced technology integration, research and development, workforce training, and supply chain development to establish a full-scale Su-57 production line domestically. This updated assessment is expected to be delivered to India’s Ministry of Defence by late November.

Variants

Su-57

This is the production model designed for use by the Russian Aerospace Forces. Initial flight trials commenced with the T-50 prototype in 2010, and full-scale manufacturing started in 2019. Plans include equipping three regiments with a total of 76 units, with the inaugural delivery taking place in December 2020.

Su-57E

The export variant of the Su-57 features several modifications such as an alternative Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system, flight instrumentation software adapted to present data in Imperial units, and cockpit labeling in English. Additionally, it supports integration of non-Russian armaments upon request. Rosoboronexport promotes this model under the designation Perspective multirole fighter (PMF).

Su-57M

An enhanced version of the standard Su-57, developed under the Megapolis program, incorporates upgraded mission systems, improved reliability and maintainability, new flight control actuators, and is powered by Saturn AL-51F-1 engines. Flight testing is scheduled to commence in 2022, with serial production anticipated by the mid-2020s.

FGFA

Main article: Sukhoi/HAL FGFA

The Sukhoi/HAL FGFA represented a proposed Su-57 variant tailored for the Indian Air Force; however, India exited the FGFA project in 2018 prior to any prototype construction. Intended as the primary export version of the PAK FA, it was to incorporate 43 distinct enhancements including advancements in stealth capabilities, supercruise performance, sensors, networking, and combat avionics. Despite conflicting statements—India emphasizing numerous upgrades over the base PAK FA model and Mikhail Pogosyan, United Aircraft Corporation’s head in 2013, asserting that both models would share identical onboard systems and avionics—India ultimately refrained from concluding an agreement with Russia due to concerns regarding joint manufacturing, technology transfer, and maintenance responsibilities. Reports also indicated that India questioned aspects of stealth development, radar functionality, and supercruise capability before withdrawing from the program in 2018.

Other variants

In 2008, Alexei Fedorov, president of UAC, stated that any decision regarding the incorporation of fifth-generation technologies into the production of a smaller fighter jet (similar in size to the F-35) would be postponed until the PAK FA development is fully completed.

A carrier-based adaptation of the Su-57 was proposed for the Project 23000 or Storm supercarrier. Scale models of this aircraft carrier concept depict the Su-57 equipped with folding wings and stabilators. The aircraft is intended to operate using both a ski-jump ramp and an Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System.

The draft for the upcoming state armament program (GVP) spanning 2024–2033 includes plans to develop a new carrier-capable fighter derived from the Su-57 platform, though it will undergo substantial modifications.

The Su-57 serves as a platform for testing integration with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and various subsystems such as weapons, control, and navigation systems designed for Russia's forthcoming sixth-generation combat platform, applicable to both manned and unmanned configurations.

By January 2019, reports indicated that the third flyable Su-57 prototype (serial number 053) was being utilized to test avionics systems and to facilitate cooperative operations with the Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik UCAV.

In July 2021, it was officially confirmed that a two-seat version of the Su-57 was under development. This variant aims to train pilots and enable control over the Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik UCAV. The two-seater model was further referenced during the Army-2022 forum held in August 2022.

Operators

Russia

• Russian Aerospace Forces – As of December 2023, there are 10 prototypes alongside 21 production Su-57 aircraft actively serving, out of a total order comprising 76 production units. It is believed that an additional three jets were delivered in September 2024. Furthermore, undisclosed quantities of Su-57s were reportedly delivered during November and December 2024, totaling seven aircraft throughout the year. It is also probable that two more units were delivered in April 2025.

Accidents

On June 10, 2014, the fifth flying prototype, designated T-50-5, suffered extensive damage due to an engine fire following landing. The pilot escaped without injuries. The damaged aircraft was subsequently decommissioned, with its usable components repurposed to complete the sixth "first stage" prototype. This sixth prototype then assumed the fifth’s bort number and was redesignated from T-50-6-1 to T-50-5R. Official records continue to treat these two as a single aircraft.

On December 24, 2019, the initial serial production Su-57 (bearing the bort number "01 blue") crashed approximately 110–120 km (68–75 mi) from Dzyomgi Airport in Khabarovsk Krai during the concluding phase of factory flight tests. The accident was attributed to a failure in the control system. The pilot successfully ejected and was retrieved by helicopter. According to reports by TASS, the incident occurred at an altitude near 8,000 metres (26,000 ft), when the aircraft unexpectedly entered a rapid spiral descent after control system failure. Attempts to regain level flight using manual controls proved unsuccessful, prompting the pilot to eject at approximately 2,000 metres (6,600 ft) altitude.

Specifications (Su-57)

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Three-view illustration of Sukhoi T-50

Noteworthy media appearances

Main article: Aircraft in fiction § Sukhoi Su-57

In the 2022 motion picture Top Gun: Maverick, the Su-57 is depicted as the fighter jet operated by an unspecified hostile country, described as a "fifth-generation fighter". The aircraft is also featured as a flyable model in multiple installments of the aerial combat video game franchise Ace Combat.

See also

Bibliography

• Lake, Jon. "Sukhoi T-50 – Russia's Raptor?" Combat Aircraft, Vol. 11, No. 4, April 2010.
• Sweetman, Bill. "Sukhoi T-50 Shows Flight-Control Innovations". Aviation Week & Space Technology, 19 August 2013. New York City, New York, US: Penton Media, Inc.

External links

• Sukhoi Su-57 official page at UAC