Russian TV Station Unveils “Helmet-Mounted Targeting System” for Su-57 5th-Gen Fighter Pilots
The new system is expected to help narrow the technological gap between Russia's Su-57 and its fifth-generation counterparts from the United States, such as the F-35 and F-22, as well as China's J-20 "Mighty Dragon."
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Russian state television has unveiled a newly developed Helmet-Mounted Targeting System (HMTS) designed specifically for pilots of the country’s fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Su-57 “Felon.”
The new system is expected to help narrow the technological gap between Russia’s Su-57 and its fifth-generation counterparts from the United States, such as the F-35 and F-22, as well as China’s J-20 “Mighty Dragon.”
Notably, China recently introduced its second fifth-generation fighter, the J-35.
Similar to the HMTS used by F-35, F-22, and J-20 pilots, Russia’s advanced helmet system is engineered to enhance pilot performance by displaying critical information directly on the visor, while addressing various challenges related to flight and targeting systems.
Observers have described the HMTS for Su-57 pilots as a “significant leap forward” compared to systems previously employed by Russian fighter pilots.
The HMTS delivers essential flight data, enabling pilots to target weapons, maintain superior spatial orientation, and monitor critical mission information seamlessly and efficiently.
By integrating multiple data streams directly into the helmet, the HMTS provides a tactical edge for Su-57 pilots during operations, including in high-stakes dogfights.
However, analysts point out a notable shortcoming in the Su-57 system: the absence of a “distributed aperture system” (DAS) like those used by the F-35, J-20, and J-35.
The DAS enables pilots to link their helmets with optical sensors, offering 360-degree situational awareness and alerts about potential threats.
To compensate for this, the Su-57 is equipped with five or six Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars mounted across various parts of the aircraft, compared to the single radar found on most other fifth-generation fighters.
The US-made F-35 uses Gen III Helmet Mounted Display System (HMDS), known for its cutting-edge features and combat-proven performance
Russia’s aerospace industry and government have invested heavily in gradually modernizing the Su-57.
The unveiling of the HMTS comes less than 48 hours after footage of a radar cross-section-reducing engine nozzle was released, demonstrating ongoing efforts to enhance the aircraft’s stealth capabilities.
There is speculation that the decision to introduce the HMTS was influenced by operational experience in Ukraine, where the Su-57 has undergone significantly more intense combat testing than any other fighter of its generation.
These operations have included suppressing enemy air defenses, air-to-air combat, missions in heavily contested airspace, and precision strikes.
Another likely factor is joint exercises with Chinese fighter jets, including the fifth-generation J-20. These interactions may have highlighted the importance of advanced helmet systems in maintaining competitive capabilities for modern air combat in the 2020s. — DSA
