Russia’s Defense Ministry has taken delivery of a substantial number of modernized Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft produced by United Aircraft Corporation under Rostec. The updated jets were refined to align with battlefield experience and current operational requirements, incorporating enhanced onboard avionics and an upgraded weapons package. Known to NATO as the “Felon,” the Su-57 is intended to gradually replace legacy Su-27 and MiG-29 platforms. The aircraft measures 20 meters in length with a 14-meter wingspan and is armed with a 30mm Gryazev-Shipunov cannon along with a broad array of guided bombs and missiles for air superiority, strike, anti-ship, and anti-radiation missions. It can reach Mach 2, operate at altitudes up to 20,000 meters, and fly approximately 4,500 kilometers without refueling. Reports based on leaked documents suggest Moscow has examined export opportunities with Iran, Ethiopia, and Algeria, while also considering localized production arrangements in India to expand international involvement in the program.
