Russia Expands Su-57 Fleet with New Felon Fighters
Russia recently delivered three additional Su-57 fighter jets, also known by their NATO reporting name “Felon,” to its Aerospace Forces, marking another step in its efforts to modernize its air fleet with advanced combat aircraft. This delivery brings the Russian Su-57 fleet to an estimated total of 30 jets by early 2025, reflecting Moscow's focus on enhancing its aerial warfare capabilities in response to evolving defense demands.
The Su-57 is Russia’s answer to the fifth-generation fighter class, incorporating advanced stealth technology, powerful sensors, and a design that enables both air superiority and ground-strike roles. It’s a multi-role fighter designed to engage a range of targets, from enemy aircraft to ground-based threats, showcasing a versatility aimed at countering the military strategies of adversaries like NATO countries.
Production Progress and Deployment
Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov recently confirmed that another round of Su-57 and Su-35S fighters would be delivered before the year’s end. The Su-57, which first flew in 2010 and faced years of testing and refinement, now sees a steadier production rate. Russia is working to add dozens of these fighters to its forces, with estimates suggesting a future fleet size of around 76 units by 2028. These additions are part of a broader strategy by the Russian Ministry of Defense to replace aging aircraft and counter new aerial threats, ensuring that their fleet remains competitive on the modern battlefield.
New Weapons Capabilities and Tactical Trade-Offs
One of the standout features in the new Su-57 deliveries is the inclusion of the AKU-58U launchers, fitted on external pylons. This upgrade enables the Su-57 to carry a wider array of Russian air-to-surface weapons, including powerful munitions like the Kh-59 cruise missile series. These missiles, built for precise, long-range strikes, bring an additional offensive edge to the Su-57 by expanding its ground-attack potential.
However, this external mounting of munitions, while practical for certain missions, also impacts the aircraft’s stealth profile. The Su-57 was initially designed with internal weapon bays to support stealth operations, minimizing radar cross-section and making it less visible to enemy radar systems. But as the external pylons carry munitions, they increase the aircraft's radar visibility, reducing its low-observability benefits. This balancing act—between maximizing firepower and maintaining stealth—is a calculated trade-off by the Russian Aerospace Forces, one that reflects their willingness to prioritize mission flexibility over absolute stealth in certain scenarios.
Advanced Features and Combat Readiness
The Su-57 incorporates an array of high-tech avionics, including sophisticated radar systems and advanced data links, which are essential for detecting and engaging both aerial and ground-based targets in contested environments. Its “glass cockpit” display, featuring multiple digital screens, provides pilots with comprehensive situational awareness and integrates information from various sensors and sources in real-time. This suite of technology enhances the Su-57’s performance, especially in dynamic, high-stakes engagements.
The fighter’s two Saturn AL-41F1 engines deliver high thrust and allow supercruise—sustained supersonic flight without afterburners. Future models of the Su-57 are expected to feature the more advanced Izdeliye 30 engines, which will further increase speed, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. Combined with thrust-vectoring nozzles, these engines grant the Su-57 superior agility, which is critical in dogfights and evasive maneuvers.
The Su-57 also features a stealthy airframe design intended to minimize radar detection. However, in combat, operational demands may require Russian pilots to forgo stealth for greater firepower, especially during precision strikes where stealth might be less critical than firepower or range. With the external loadout options introduced, the Su-57 can adjust to meet specific mission needs, allowing for both stealth-oriented and firepower-heavy configurations.
Strategic Implications
The Su-57’s development and integration into Russia's air fleet represent Moscow’s commitment to maintaining an advanced, flexible air force. The Felon’s capabilities make it a formidable opponent for any fifth-generation fighter it may encounter, and its dual-role capability ensures it can address both air and ground threats. This versatility could be crucial for Russian defense strategies, as it allows the Aerospace Forces to tailor missions based on specific tactical and operational requirements, whether it's striking high-value ground targets or establishing air dominance.
While still behind in production numbers compared to its Western counterparts, the Su-57’s growing presence signifies Russia's determination to field an elite fifth-generation aircraft capable of responding to modern combat challenges.
