Today, a series of rapidly viralized images and videos have shown the arrival, for the first time in history, of a Su-57 stealth fighter from the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) in China. The arrival of Russia’s main fifth-generation combat aircraft on Chinese soil suggests its participation in the Zhuhai Air Show, which will take place from November 12 to 17 in Guangdong province.
Designated “Felon” by NATO, the Sukhoi Su-57 is the most advanced combat aircraft developed and produced by the Russian aerospace industry. Currently, the fighter is in the process of being incorporated into the Russian Aerospace Forces, while the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) works to increase production numbers.
The arrival of the Su-57 in the Asian Giant represents one of the first opportunities for the VKS aircraft to be deployed in another country for promotional purposes. According to China’s state television (CCTV), the Felon arrived in the country on Sunday, October 3, at 2:20 p.m. (local time), landing at Taiyuan airport in the northern province of Shanxi.
According to Chinese state media, its presence is oriented toward a series of demonstrations that the Russian Aerospace Forces will perform during the Zhuhai Air Show from the 12th to the 17th of this month. In addition to the Su-57, the Russian Knights aerobatic team, consisting of six Su-35S and one Su-30SM, is expected to participate, marking this team’s return to China after their last appearance eight years ago.
The presence of the Su-57 has generated great expectations, as it could represent an unprecedented image marking the deepening of relations between China and Russia. During the air show, China’s most advanced stealth fighter in service, the J-20, as well as demonstrations of the new J-35 fighter in development, are expected. Thus, the three fifth-generation aircraft could be showcased to the public attending the major event.
Additionally, other combat aircraft in service with the People’s Liberation Army are expected to participate, including J-10C and J-16 fighters, along with their electronic warfare variant, the J-16D, H-6K bombers, advanced JL-10 trainers, and WZ-7 and WZ-10 unmanned aerial vehicles.
Finally, for the Su-57, the Zhuhai Air Show and the presence of military and commercial delegations from other nations represent an opportunity for Russia, which has expressed its intentions to advance the development of an export version of the Felon, designated Su-57E. This will allow Russia to showcase its fifth-generation fighter to air forces looking to upgrade their combat aviation capabilities.
Photo credits to respective owners.
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