Russia’s crown jewel soars to
global prominence
Making its debut on Indian soil at Aero
India 2025, the Su-57, flagship of Sukhoi and Russia’s combat aviation
engineering, is set to capture the spotlight at one of the world’s most
prestigious airshows. The aircraft’s arrival marks a historic moment, as it
will be the first time the type will perform live demonstrations in India. Already
gaining attention for its aerobatics and combat capabilities, the Su-57 earned
recognition with a standout performance at the Zhuhai Air Show 2024 in China.
These milestones signal Russia’s intention to cement its position in the global
defence industry, showcasing the Su-57's growing potential. As the aircraft continues
to evolve with cutting edge technological upgrades and operational successes,
let’s explore how each development contributes to its increasing potential as a
formidable fighter on the global stage.
The international debut
It was no less than a historic moment
when Sukhoi’s Chief Test Pilot, Sergey Bogdan flew the T-50-4, the fourth
prototype of the Su-57, to Zhuhai in November 2024. This captured the attention
of not just the spotters but also the military watchers around the world. The
aircraft made its maiden international appearance for an aerial demonstration,
14 years after its first flight, instantly elevating its status to that of a
“celebrity” throughout the entire event. Previously, the aircraft had regularly
participated in Russia’s own International Aviation and Space Show (MAKS), last
held in 2021.
Beyond its impressive aerial
performance, the Su-57 was a highlight in the static displays, giving attendees
an opportunity to closely examine its design features. This historic appearance
was also symbolic, signalling Russia’s intent to maintain its foothold in the
global defence industry despite facing significant economic and geopolitical
challenges.
New flat nozzle of the Su-57 (Source X/Russia)
The Su-57 in combat: Lessons from
Ukraine
It is well known that Moscow has
dedicated significant resources to its "Special Military Operations"
in Ukraine. The air wing has also been actively engaged in a wide range of
missions, utilising nearly all available aircraft, including the Su-57. Both the
Russian and Ukrainian sides have confirmed the involvement of the fifth generation
fighter in multiple air-to-air and air-to-ground strikes against Kyiv’s
strategic assets. In 2022, one media report indicated that the aircraft used an
R-37M air-to-air missile to shoot down a Ukrainian Su-27 over the Poltava
region, at a range exceeding 200 kilometres. Such an engagement would mark the
longest air-to-air kill ever recorded in the history of warfare and the first ever
kill achieved by a fifth generation fighter. Successful execution of missions
is instrumental in promoting the platform as a capable battle system, adept at
conducting standoff missions and deploying advanced weapons like the R-37 for air-to-air
engagements and the KH-59MK2 (exclusive to the Su-57) for air-to-ground strikes,
which are included in its diverse range of armament.
Russia-Ukraine theatre is one of the
most contested airspaces in the world today, with high risks of being painted
by sophisticated air defence systems. Employing a sensitive platform like a
fifth generation fighter without incurring a single loss is remarkable. However,
in June 2024, a Su-57 airframe sustained minor damage while on the ground from
a Ukrainian drone strike at Akhtubinsk State Flight Test Centre in southern
Russia. Visuals confirmed a crater near the ramp where the aircraft was parked,
indicating the damage was limited, likely from shrapnel. However, there has
been no visual confirmation of any Su-57 lost in combat as of December 2024. The
aircraft continues to play a pivotal role in Russian Air Force (VVS), with
ongoing efforts to expand production and meet increasing demand.
The Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aviation Plant
(KnAAZ) is in the process of delivering fresh batches of aircraft amid the war.
In 2024, three batches have reportedly been delivered, with batch sizes
undisclosed. A contract to acquire a total of 76 aircraft was signed in 2019,
with deliveries aimed to be completed by 2027. Taking account of the last
delivery that occurred in December 2024, 25 aircraft have been reportedly added
to the fleet of VVS. The country is actively ramping up Su-57 production to
meet increasing domestic and international demand. In August 2024, KnAAZ expanded
itself with a fuel systems production centre and avionics testing hangars.
These efforts aim to address production challenges and ensure timely delivery
of the fifth generation fighter, bolstering the VVS capabilities while meeting
procurement goals.
Export success: A new chapter for
Russia
Unlike the US and China, who chose to
limit the export of their first fifth generation fighters (F-22 and J-20
respectively), Russia has taken a more inclusive approach by offering Su-57 to
allies in export configurations. Interestingly, it also achieved its first
success! The official announcement was made during the Zhuhai Air Show, but
without disclosing the identity of the buyer. It has long been believed that
Algeria could be the first foreign client to acquire the Su-57E, however, it is
still unconfirmed. With this, Russia has become the third country, after the US
and China, to secure an international customer for a fifth generation fighter. America’s
Lockheed Martin F-35 has so far secured 20 customers, while in January 2024,
the Pakistan Air Force announced plans to acquire China’s Shenyang J-35.
Helmet
of the Future (Source: X/ Russia)
Technological advancements and
sub-system upgrades
Sukhoi has introduced major upgrades to
the Su-57, featuring its new engine design and advanced technologies. These
developments were highlighted for the very first time in a December 2024
documentary by Russia 1 media, celebrating 85 years of the Sukhoi and MiG
Design Bureaus, showcasing the fighter’s progress and innovation.
Firstly, introduction of flat nozzles on
the T-50-2, the second Su-57 prototype and testbed for the AL-51 (Izdeliye-30)
engines. The flat nozzles enable a reduced radar signature while maintaining
highly agile (or super-manoeuvrable) flight characteristics. Unlike the
vertical movement of flat nozzles on the Lockheed Martin F-22's P&W F119
engines, the Su-57’s diagonal movement offers superior agility, potentially
outmanoeuvring its US counterpart. The development also heavily relied on
additive manufacturing like 3D printing, with reportedly 90% of its components being
created using this technique. Interestingly, this nozzle configuration would be
equipped on other fighter aircraft in the future as well, potentially including
platforms like the Su-35 and Su-30. The flat nozzles, a long anticipated
feature of the Su-57, will be fitted to Saturn’s AL-51F turbofan engines.
Currently undergoing flight testing, these engines will power next-generation
Russian aircraft, starting with the Su-57M upon certification.
Next is the Helmet-Mounted Display
(HMD), another much anticipated system. Referred to as the “helmet of the
future,” is also under tests, both on the ground and in the air. The HMD is
designed to function like its Western counterparts, projecting all flight and
combat-related details such as airspeed, altitude, target location, weapon
information and more—directly onto the pilot’s visor. This system allows pilots
to make quicker, better decisions in minimal time.
The Su-57’s advanced AI integration
supports flight and combat operations by assisting the pilot with decision making.
It provides visual and vocal alerts for system failures, suggesting safe
resolutions. In combat, AI prioritises targets and advises the pilot for
suitable positioning for effective weapon deployment, enhancing situational
awareness and combat effectiveness as a “second pilot.”
Future prospects in India
The announcement of the Su-57’s
participation in Aero India took the analysts by storm. While it used to be showcased
as scaled down models by UAC and Rosoboronexport, this marks the first time an
actual airframe has been brought to Yelahanka for the airshow. This event opens
a new window of opportunity for Russia to further market the Felon to India and
other potential buyers.
In 2001, the Indian Air Force (IAF)
planned to acquire 126 Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MRCA), later replaced by a
2016 deal for 36 Rafales, which didn’t fulfil requirements. A new plan for 114
aircraft awaits the government’s Acceptance of Necessity (AoN), allowing
manufacturers additional time to present refined options, such as the Su-57, to
meet evolving requirements.
In 2010, India partnered with Russia and
Sukhoi to jointly develop the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft
(FGFA)/Perspective Multirole Fighter (PMF), based on the PAK FA (Su-57/T-50),
and oriented for the Indian and export market. However, after eight years of
design reviews, cost overruns and sustainability concerns, it was decided to
call off the programme.
Despite this, in 2019, the then CAS Air
Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa stated that the Su-57 could be reconsidered once it
enters service. Now that it is operational with the VVS and has even seen
success in combat, this presents a favourable opportunity for Moscow to
reignite Indian interest in the aircraft. However, critical factors such as
production timelines, after-sales support, and alignment with India’s
indigenous AMCA programme will play a key role in evaluating the Su-57’s
suitability for the MRCA competition. Balancing the acquisition of advanced
foreign platforms with the ongoing development of a domestic fighter in the
same class will be essential for shaping India’s strategic and technological
trajectory.
Conclusion
The Su-57, from the overall technical
aspect, is a cutting edge fifth generation fighter. It is equipped with an
array of six radar systems including a primary AESA radar mounted in the nose, side-facing
radars on the wings and a rearward looking radar. This enables a comprehensive
360 degree coverage, ensuring superior situational awareness. The aircraft
leverages Manned-UnManned Teaming (MUM-T) and boasts an extensive array of
precision guided munitions for both air-to-air and air-to-ground engagements.
Additionally, its integration of a Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM)
system enhances survivability by neutralising incoming missile threats. These
capabilities collectively elevate the Su-57’s stealth, agility, and combat
effectiveness, positioning it as a formidable force in modern aerial warfare.
Whether at a personal or industry level,
excellence is never achieved overnight. It requires a steady and consistent
approach, with each step contributing toward the ultimate goal. Russia, Sukhoi,
and their engineering divisions exemplify this philosophy. Despite initial
setbacks, the progress made on the Su-57 is nothing short of remarkable. With
further advancements on the horizon, this platform is poised to become the
cornerstone of Russia’s aerospace capabilities, showcasing its engineering prowess
and determination to remain at the forefront of aviation technology.
By:
Rishav Gupta
(Twitter/X:
@connect_rishav)