Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has released new footage showing the Su-57 stealth fighter with its forward internal weapons bay open, revealing two large anti-radiation missiles likely designed for suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD). The disclosure, timed days before the Dubai Airshow 2025, underscores Moscow’s effort to highlight the aircraft’s evolving multirole capabilities and sustain global export interest amid ongoing modernization. The footage, featuring test aircraft T-50-9 “509,” shows the fighter conducting dynamic passes with its main bay doors partially open to display its payload. Analysts identify the weapons as Kh-58UShK anti-radiation missiles configured for internal carriage, signaling that Russia’s fifth-generation fighter can now perform SEAD missions without compromising low-observable characteristics. The appearance of two long-body Kh-58 variants nested within the forward bay validates years of engineering work to integrate large stores within the Su-57’s tandem internal compartments. This marks the first unmistakable public look inside the aircraft’s primary bay; earlier imagery had only shown smaller side bays carrying short-range missiles. The integration relies on Vympel’s UVKU-50U ejector mechanisms, which enable clean release of heavy munitions from deep internal mounts. According to industry sources, this configuration could allow the Su-57 to strike radar emitters while maintaining radar cross-section discipline, expanding its tactical flexibility against advanced air-defense networks. The timing of the release serves dual purposes: strengthening Russia’s export messaging ahead of the Dubai showcase and reinforcing domestic narratives of steady progress in Su-57 development and delivery. Rostec and UAC have emphasized ongoing serial production and upgrades, despite Western sanctions and supply-chain constraints. If the Kh-58 integration enters regular service, it will enhance Russia’s capability to conduct suppression operations with reduced exposure, positioning the Su-57 as a credible stealth strike platform within an evolving regional and export context.
