Russia Signs First Export Contract for Su-57E Fifth-Generation Fighter Jet

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Russia’s state defense agency, Rosoboronexport, has announced that it has signed its first contract to export its fifth-generation fighter jet, the Su-57E, to an undisclosed foreign client.

This was revealed by Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev to Russia’s TASS news agency during the ongoing Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai, China.

“We have signed the first (foreign client sales) contract,” he said, adding that interest in Russia’s fifth-generation fighter jet remains high.

The initial export contract involves the Su-57E variant, specifically designed for foreign markets. Although China has its own fifth-generation fighters, the J-20 “Mighty Dragon” and the recently showcased J-35A, it has been widely speculated as the first foreign customer for the Su-57E. However, there has been no official statement from Beijing.

Previous reports have indicated that Algeria may have already agreed to acquire the Su-57 fighter jets.

For the first time, Russia unveiled the export variant Su-57E and its armaments at the Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai. The Su-57E also conducted a demonstration flight during the event, showcasing its design based on the Su-57 Felon.

The presence of the export version at Airshow China demonstrates Russia’s commitment to attracting potential buyers interested in acquiring the Su-57 as their fifth-generation fighter jet.

Mikheyev earlier stated that the combat experience of the Su-57E has qualified it as a fifth-generation fighter jet. Media reports have previously highlighted that Russia deployed its fifth-generation Su-57 fighters in limited combat operations in conflict zones, including Ukraine and Syria.

With a maximum takeoff weight of 34,000 kg and an operational range of up to 7,800 km with in-flight refueling, the Su-57E is designed for durability and versatility.

“The Su-57E meets all the requirements of a fifth-generation fighter. Its primary competitive edge is its real-world combat experience,” he noted.

According to Russia’s Ministry of Defense, the Su-57 has performed exceptionally well in combat. This fighter jet is a high-powered weapons platform equipped with advanced missiles and boasts high survivability with low-signature and modern internal defense systems.

It is powered by two engines, each producing 14,500 kgf of thrust, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 1,350 km/h at near-ground level. Classified as “supermaneuverable” with supersonic capabilities, the Su-57 is capable of executing a variety of missions for international operators.

The Su-57 is a fifth-generation fighter jet designed to destroy all air, ground, and naval targets while monitoring airspace from its base and more. It has a weapon payload capacity of up to 10 tons.

Sergey Bogdan, the pilot who flew the Su-57E during the demonstration at Airshow China 2024, described the aircraft as highly stable and extremely safe.

“The extreme demonstration modes show that the fighter jet is very stable and extremely safe. Practicing certain maneuvers can lead to new tactical techniques, providing a competitive edge in aerial combat,” he said. — DSA