RMAF Chief Explores Russia’s 5th-Gen Fighter Jet Su-57 Up Close at Airshow China 2024
The presence of Russia's fifth-generation fighter export variant, the Su-57E, at Airshow China in Zhuhai underscores Russia's commitment to attracting interest from potential buyers seeking to acquire the Su-57 as their fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Chief, General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan, attended the Airshow China in Zhuhai, where he had the opportunity to closely observe Russia’s latest fifth-generation fighter jet, the Su-57.
“During the event, the RMAF Commander and his delegation witnessed aerial displays, with the highlight being the Russian fifth-generation fighter jet, the Su-57, which made its debut appearance at the exhibition,” according to a social media post by the RMAF on November 14.
The RMAF Chief also inspected the Su-57 static display and received a briefing on the aircraft’s specifications and capabilities.
He visited several exhibitor booths and held meetings with key players in the international defense industry.
Additionally, General Asghar Khan held discussions with his Chinese counterpart, General Chang Dingqiu, focusing on strengthening military relations and exploring future collaboration plans, including knowledge exchanges and joint training programs between the two nations.
He also extended an invitation to General Chang to attend the Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA ’25) next year.
At Airshow China 2024, Russia showcased the export variant of the Su-57, the Su-57E, for the first time.
The aircraft, based on the Su-57 Felon, performed a demonstration flight during the airshow.
Its presence underlined Russia’s commitment to attracting potential buyers for this fifth-generation fighter jet.
With a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 34,000 kg and an operational range of up to 7,800 km with in-flight refueling, the Su-57E is designed for endurance and versatility.
Powered by two engines, each producing 14,500 kgf of thrust, the aircraft can achieve a maximum speed of 1,350 km/h at near-ground level.
The Su-57E is categorized as a “supermaneuverable” fighter with supersonic capabilities, designed to meet the diverse mission requirements of international operators.
It is capable of engaging air, ground, and maritime targets, conducting airspace surveillance, and carrying a weapon payload of up to 10 tons.
Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev emphasized that the Su-57E’s combat experience qualifies it as a fifth-generation fighter.
“The Su-57E meets all the requirements of a fifth-generation fighter. Its key competitive advantage lies in its real combat experience,” he said.
“The Russian Ministry of Defense has stated that the aircraft has performed exceptionally in combat. It is a high-powered weapons system equipped with advanced missiles, offering high survivability through its low signature and modern internal defense systems,” Mikheyev added.–DSA
