(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — The Russian aerospace conglomerate, United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), has unofficially confirmed the frontline deployment of the country’s fifth-generation fighter jet, the Su-57 “Felon,” in Ukraine.
The Su-57 has joined other Russian fighter jets, including the Su-34 Fullback and Su-35 Flanker-E, in the region.
In a statement to TASS news agency, UAC highlighted the Su-57’s ability to perform a wide range of missions under extremely challenging conditions, thanks to its stealth capabilities and other advanced features.
Sukhoi Design Bureau is continuing efforts to further enhance and expand the mission capabilities of this fifth-generation fighter jet.
Although the specifics of the Su-57’s upgraded capabilities were not detailed, Sukhoi Design Bureau has announced a phased upgrade approach for the aircraft.
Starting this year, the Su-57 will be equipped with the new Izdeliye 30 engine, promising greater thrust and fuel efficiency compared to the older AL-41F1 engine.
The new engine, Izdeliye 30 (AL-51F1 )has successfully passed all tests, achieving thrust levels of 11,000kg and 18,000kg with afterburner.
With the Izdeliye 30 engine, the Su-57 can now reach a cruising speed of Mach 2.
With the new Izdeliye 30 (AL-51F) engine, observers state that the Su-57 fighter jet is now officially a fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
The upgraded variant, known as the Su-57M (Modification), is equipped with new avionics, including a more capable radar that enhances target detection and tracking range.
Additionally, UAC is working on improving the aircraft’s stealth capabilities.
The Su-57 can now carry a variety of weapon systems, from air-to-ground missiles like the KH-59Mk2 to air-to-air missiles such as the R-37M.
The R-37M (RVV-BD) missile can engage aerial targets at ranges of 300-400km.
Moscow has increased the use of long-range air-to-air missiles like the R-37M to keep its aircraft out of the heavily defended Ukrainian airspace monitored by NATO early warning aircraft.
The long-range air-to-air missile R-37M (RVV-BD) or AA-13 is a modern missile with components manufactured in Russia.
It is produced by the renowned Russian company Vympel, which specializes in the development of air-to-air missile systems.
Meanwhile, the KH-59Mk2 air-to-ground missile, equipped with a 320kg penetrator warhead, can destroy fortified military targets up to 300km away.
Due to its subsonic speed, the KH-59Mk2 air-to-ground missile can travel greater distances despite its smaller size.
The Su-57 is also equipped with the Kh-58UShKE anti-radiation missile to target enemy communication and radar centers and air defense systems.
Future upgrades will include the small-sized KH-38ME cruise missile with a range of 400km.
As the United States upgrades its fifth-generation fighter, the F-35 Block 4, Russia is enhancing the Su-57 with capabilities akin to a sixth-generation fighter.
The Su-57 will soon feature Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities.
Test pilot Rafael Suleimanove from Sukhoi Design Bureau noted that AI integration would enable the Su-57 to perform virtually any task in the air.
Pilots experienced with the Su-35 will have no trouble transitioning to the Su-57. — DSA