staff@slashgear.com (Nathan P. Gibson)
2024-05-23 10:30:49
www.slashgear.com
In many ways, it makes perfect sense that Russia would have its own fifth-generation fighter. After all, the country still maintains a somewhat frosty relationship with the U.S. and tries to maintain an equal footing wherever possible when it comes to technology and combat capabilities. Unlike the U.S., which has two fifth-generation fighters, Russia currently takes the same approach as its ally China by having just one operational aircraft that fits into this category.
The Sukhoi Su-57 Felon jet has an impressive set of specs. Able to climb to 65,000 feet, the Su-57 has a higher operational ceiling compared to the F-22. It can also reach a top speed of around Mach 2 (roughly 1,550 mph) and can remain in the air for up to 2,175 miles. It is also armed with a wide range of weaponry, from missiles and rockets to a powerful autocannon.
Russia intends for this fighter to replace both the MiG-29 and Su-27, operating as a multirole fighter with stealth capabilities like most other aircraft of this type. That makes it more akin to the F-35 and J-20 than the F-22, which is primarily an air superiority fighter. Among the nations that have fifth-generation fighters, Russia currently has the least amount, The Su-57 first flew in 2010 and since its introduction into active service in 2020, only 22 production units have been manufactured and delivered.