After several months without major updates, it was confirmed today, September 12, that the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) received the first batch of Su-57 stealth fighters for the year 2024. The news was confirmed through an official statement issued by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), accompanied by various images and videos that quickly went viral on social media; the delivery of new Su-35S fighters was also reported.
The UAC highlighted the delivery of new Su-57 stealth fighters to the Russian Aerospace Forces. Although no further details were provided, this new batch is said to consist of three fifth-generation aircraft, marking the first provision to the VKS in 2024. The last recorded delivery of these aircraft occurred in December of the previous year.
According to UAC CEO Yuri Slyusar, “The number of fifth-generation fighters entering the Russian Aerospace Forces increases every year. Today, the advanced fifth-generation Su-57 is the most modern tactical aircraft in Russia.” While exact figures are not officially available, beyond stipulated contract numbers, the VKS is estimated to have between ten and twenty Su-57 units (NATO designation Felon) in service.
The number of fifth-generation fighters delivered to the VKS is lower compared to their Western and Chinese counterparts. For example, the U.S. F-35, in its various versions, completed the production of a total of 398 units by 2022 within Lots 15, 16, and 17. Meanwhile, the People’s Liberation Army Air Force reportedly has around 200 units.
Although not officially mentioned, this situation has led the UAC to initiate various measures to increase the production of new Su-57s. One of the most recent initiatives is the expansion of the Komsomolsk-on-Amur aviation plant, including “…buildings for fuel system testing, as well as the completion of the first phase of construction of a hangar for testing onboard radio-electronic equipment (BREO), to scale up serial production of aircraft,” according to a statement from late August.
Finally, regarding the delivery of the three new Su-57 Felons, the UAC stated: “The fifth-generation fighters were received by technical personnel, completed the entire factory testing cycle, and were tested in various operational modes by pilots from the Russian Ministry of Defense. The aircraft flew to their destination airfield,” without specifying which unit of the Aerospace Forces received the stealth fighters.
*Images: United Aircraft Corporation.
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