Su-57 Fighter Jet Production and Export Prospects
The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), a subsidiary of Rostec, has successfully delivered a new batch of fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jets to the Russian Aerospace Forces. According to a recent press release, these aircraft have undergone comprehensive factory testing and have been accepted by the technical staff. Alongside the Su-57s, the UAC has also supplied additional fourth-generation Su-35S multi-role fighters to bolster the Russian military's capabilities.
Rostec CEO Sergei Chemezov highlighted the Su-57 as a formidable weapon, emphasizing its advanced destruction capabilities and high survivability due to its low visibility and modern onboard defense systems. The aircraft is continuously being improved based on operational experiences. Chemezov also announced that the export version of the Su-57, known as the Su-57E, will make its debut at Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai from November 12 to 17. This marks the first time the Su-57E will be showcased internationally, featuring in both flight demonstrations and static displays, as well as an interactive virtual reality simulator for attendees.
Combat Experience and Future Prospects
The Su-57, developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau, has been operational since 2019 and boasts a diverse arsenal of air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, enabling it to function as both a fighter and a strike aircraft. Its advanced avionics and stealth capabilities allow for covert operations against enemy forces. The aircraft has already seen combat in Syria and has been deployed in the ongoing special operations in Donbass, where it has reportedly performed its tasks effectively.
Experts believe the Su-57 has strong export potential, particularly among nations lacking advanced military technologies and those outside the influence of the United States. The aircraft's price point will play a crucial role in its marketability, with countries like India, China, and various Middle Eastern nations being potential buyers. Analysts assert that increasing production of the Su-57E will not only enhance the Russian military's capabilities but also lead to cost reductions and improvements in the aircraft's design based on operational feedback.
