Overview
The Su-57 is a fifth-generation stealth multi-role fighter aircraft developed by Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC). It is designed to undertake air superiority, interception, and precision strike missions in highly contested airspace.
Country of Origin
- Russia
- Developed primarily for the Russian Aerospace Forces
Key Characteristics
Stealth Features
- Designed with a low radar cross-section airframe
- Extensive use of composite materials and radar-absorbent coatings
- Stealth optimisation is strongest from the front aspect
Radar and Sensor Systems
- Fitted with multi-band AESA radar architecture
- Enhances target detection, tracking, and battlefield awareness
- Suitable for operations in electronically contested environments
Manoeuvrability
- Powered by thrust-vectoring engines
- Enables high agility and superior performance in close-combat scenarios
Supercruise Capability
- Capable of sustained supersonic flight without afterburners
- Improves response time while reducing fuel consumption
Avionics and AI Support
- Incorporates AI-assisted avionics systems
- Supports pilots through sensor fusion, threat evaluation, and decision-making
Weapons Capability
- Can carry a range of air-to-air and air-to-ground precision-guided munitions
- Designed to deploy advanced and hypersonic-class missiles
- Supports internal and external weapon carriage based on mission needs
Su-57 and F-35: Comparative Snapshot
Design Philosophy
- Su-57: Emphasises air dominance and interception, with strike capability as an additional role
- F-35: Focuses on stealth-based multi-role strike operations
Stealth Profile
- Su-57: Optimised for frontal stealth, with moderate all-angle stealth
- F-35: Engineered for full-spectrum stealth and very low radar visibility
Manoeuvrability
- Su-57: Highly agile due to thrust-vectoring
- F-35: Less manoeuvrable, prioritising stealth and network-centric warfare
Speed and Supercruise
- Su-57: Higher speed envelope and effective supercruise capability
- F-35: Lower maximum speed with limited supercruise
Payload Capacity
- Su-57: Larger payload with flexibility between internal and external carriage
- F-35: Limited internal payload in stealth mode, expanded capacity in non-stealth configuration
Cost and Sustainment (as generally reported)
- Su-57: Projected to have lower acquisition and operating costs
- F-35: Associated with higher procurement and sustainment expenses
Conclusion
The Su-57 represents Russia’s approach to fifth-generation air combat, combining stealth, supercruise, high manoeuvrability, advanced sensors, and AI-supported avionics into a single platform. Its design reflects a clear emphasis on air superiority and kinetic performance, distinguishing it from stealth-first fighter philosophies. As a fifth-generation aircraft, the Su-57 underscores the evolving nature of modern aerial warfare, where speed, survivability, information dominance, and weapon integration collectively define combat effectiveness.
