At the Aero India air show, Russian manufacturer Sukhoi presented the export version of the SU-57E, a twin-engine stealth multi-role fighter. The SU-57 is the first Russian armed forces aircraft to feature stealth technology, and is intended to serve as the basis for a family of stealth combat aircraft.
Technical specifications of the SU-57E
The SU-57E is a fifth-generation multi-role fighter, incorporating advanced technologies to ensure air superiority and ground-attack capabilities. Its dimensions are as follows: a length of 19.7 meters, a wingspan of 14 meters and a height of 4.8 meters, with a wing area of 78.8 m². The aircraft has an empty weight of 18,500 kg and a maximum take-off weight of 37,000 kg. It is powered by two AL-41F1 engines, each delivering 14,500 kg of thrust, enabling it to reach a maximum speed of 2,600 km/h (Mach 2.45) and an operating ceiling of 20,000 meters. The range is 1,800 km, extendable by in-flight refuelling. The aircraft is equipped with internal bunkers capable of carrying up to 10 tonnes of armament, including air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, as well as guided bombs. Avionics systems include the Sh121 AESA radar, offering accurate target detection and extensive radar coverage, even in hostile environments with active jamming systems. The SU-57E also boasts supercruise capabilities, enabling it to maintain supersonic speeds without using afterburner, improving fuel efficiency and stealth.
Differences between SU-57E and SU-57
Although the SU-57E shares many features with the SU-57 designed for Russian forces, there are some notable differences to meet the requirements of international customers. One of the main distinctions is the Friend or Foe identification system (IFF), adapted to the specific needs of importing countries. In addition, the SU-57E’s flight instrument software is configured to display measurements in imperial units, facilitating its integration into air forces using this system. Cockpit markings are also in English for greater international compatibility. In terms of armament, the SU-57E can be configured to incorporate non-Russian weapons, according to specific customer requirements. These adaptations enable the SU-57E to integrate more easily into the arsenals of foreign air forces, while retaining the advanced performance of the original model.
Operational capabilities and armament
The SU-57E is designed to perform a variety of missions, including air superiority, ground attack and electronic warfare, all in full stealth mode. It is capable of combat operations against air, land and sea targets, day and night, using both guided and unguided munitions. The aircraft features two large internal cargo compartments, each able to accommodate up to four K-77M air-to-air missiles. It is also equipped with an internal 30 mm GSh-30-1 cannon for short-range engagements. The SU-57E’s armament capabilities enable it to effectively neutralize a wide range of threats, while minimizing its radar signature thanks to the internal payload.
Export prospects and potential customers
The SU-57E is attracting interest from several countries around the world. At the Zhuhai Air Show in 2024, Russia announced the signing of the first export contract for the SU-57E, although the identity of the customer was not disclosed. Speculation suggests that Algeria could be the first foreign buyer of this fifth-generation fighter. Algeria, which has a long-standing arms relationship with Russia, has expressed interest in the SU-57E to modernize its air fleet and strengthen its defense capabilities. Other countries in Asia-Pacific, Africa and Europe have also expressed interest in the SU-57E, attracted by its advanced performance and operational versatility.
The strategic consequences of the SU-57E’s introduction to the international market
The introduction of the SU-57E on the international market could have significant strategic implications. For acquiring countries, the integration of a fifth-generation fighter like the SU-57E represents a major step forward in terms of military capabilities, enabling them to strengthen their air superiority and potentially deter adversaries. For Russia, exporting the SU-57E offers an opportunity to consolidate relations with strategic partners and extend its geopolitical influence. What’s more, the revenues generated by SU-57E sales can be reinvested in research and development, fostering technological innovation and maintaining the competitiveness of the Russian aerospace industry on the international stage.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.