Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has officially presented the export version of its Su-57E, a fifth-generation multifunctional stealth fighter jet, showcasing its advanced capabilities for potential international buyers.
The unveiling highlights Russia’s continued push to establish a presence in the competitive market for advanced combat aircraft.
The Su-57E, which is based on the Su-57 Felon, is designed to fulfill a wide array of combat roles. It is equipped with sophisticated avionics and is capable of engaging air, ground, and sea targets under challenging operational conditions. UAC has emphasized that the aircraft can be operated continuously in active jamming environments, offering a key feature to potential operators facing complex electronic warfare threats.
The fighter’s specifications boast an impressive array of capabilities. With a maximum takeoff weight of 34,000 kg and a range of 7,800 km with in-flight refueling, the Su-57E is designed for both endurance and versatility. The aircraft is powered by two engines, each generating 14,500 kgf of thrust, and can achieve a maximum speed of 1,350 km/h near ground level. Notably, the aircraft’s supermaneuverability and supersonic capabilities are designed to meet the diverse mission needs of operators around the world.
One of the defining characteristics of the Su-57E is its combination of stealth technology, automated weapon systems, and enhanced avionics. The aircraft features a low radar, infrared, and visible signature, designed to minimize detection while enhancing survivability. The onboard suite includes efficient jam-resistant avionics and systems for the deployment of a wide variety of munitions, including high-precision “Long Arm” weapons, making it a highly adaptable platform.
The Su-57E’s configuration also includes 12 hardpoints, with six located inside the fuselage, allowing for a diverse set of weapon configurations. This flexibility makes the aircraft suitable for multiple roles, from air superiority missions to deep strike capabilities. The combination of automation, multitask ability, and multi-channel weapon deployment aims to ensure that the Su-57E can be effectively utilized in different combat scenarios with minimal pilot workload.
“The Su-57E is the embodiment of advanced aviation technology. It is a true multifunctional fighter designed for modern warfare, capable of operating 24/7, regardless of the intensity of electronic warfare or challenging environments,” the spokesperson remarked.
UAC’s promotion of the Su-57E signals its intent to compete directly with other prominent fifth-generation fighters available on the international market, including the U.S.-made F-35 and Chinese J-20.
But the Su-57 Felon fighter jet, showcased for the first time at Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai, has become the subject of widespread mockery on Chinese social media.