The Sukhoi 57 is the first Russian stealth fighter, designed to evade detection by F-22 Raptors. The aircraft is equipped with an advanced radar and electronic countermeasure suite. The aircraft also has an infrared search and ultraviolet missile approach warning systems. These systems allow the Su-57 to stay under radar surveillance for a longer period of time.
Russia has ordered 76 Su-57 fighters, which will enter service by 2028. They will be used together with the S-70 Okhotnik strikedron, which will serve as a "loyal wingsman". According to Tass, Su-57's first flight was expected to be in the middle to 2022. Trials of an "electric" Su-57 variant will follow, and are expected to last for two years.
This fifth-generation fighter aircraft was designed originally to fight the F-22. The aircraft also features a powerful radar and an infrared search and warning system. In addition, the Su-57 is equipped with a 30mm autocannon.
It is mostly made of titanium alloys and other proprietary Russian metal alloys. It is said to be extremely maneuverable. It is capable of climbing at speeds of between 361 and 330 meters per second. The Su-57's yaw rate is five degrees. This allows the Su-57 to perform high angle attack maneuvers with minimal altitude loss. It can also travel up to Mach 2 with no afterburners.
The Su-57 has been designed to serve the Russian Air Force's needs, which require 150-200 multi-role Fighters. If the Su-57 is unavailable, the Air Force may turn to Su-35, a multi-role aircraft that has been extensively employed in operations against UNF or other enemies.
A new aircraft engine, the "izdeliye 30", is being developed for the Su-57. According to reports, the engine can produce thrust of up 16 tonnes. AL-41F-1, another engine in development, is also being considered. Plans are underway to replace hydraulic systems in Su-57 aircraft with electromechanical drives. This will improve stealth characteristics and reduce maintenance.
Russia has been accused, in recent months. of using Su-57 against Ukraine. Though the United States has publicly denied this accusation, the British Ministry of Defense has confirmed that Russia has used the fighter in Ukraine. Unconfirmed reports that surfaced before June 2022 suggest that the Russian Air Force still uses the Su-57 for combat, despite the absence of any official evidence.
The UK Ministry of Defence is currently examining Ukraine's situation and is focusing its attention on Su-57. It has published a Defense Intelligence update on the subject. It stated that the aircraft was likely to be in combat from June 2022 and that the Russians might be planning to execute air-to–air missile strikes into Ukraine. While the details of this assessment are unknown, it appears that the aircraft may be a good fit for Russian missions, as its range and sensor capabilities are more than enough to match the capabilities of the Ukrainian opposition fighters.