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Russia Combines Power of S-70 Heavy Attack UAV and Su-57 Most Modern Stealth Fighter.
The S-70 "Okhotnik," Russia's heavy strike unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), will see its operational capabilities enhanced with the integration of the new AL-51F1 engine. This advanced power unit will not only power the Okhotnik but will also work in synergy with the Su-57, Russia's fifth-generation stealth fighter. Together, these systems will form a formidable pair on the battlefield for the Russian Army.
The Okhotnik UAV will work in synergy with the Su-57, Russia's fifth-generation stealth fighter. (Picture source: Russian Media)
The AL-51F1 engine, which stands out for its remarkable combination of reduced fuel consumption and increased thrust, is designed to meet the demands of next-generation aircraft and UAVs. It will equip not only the S-70 "Okhotnik" but also the Su-75, a lightweight single-engine fifth-generation fighter, highlighting its versatility and suitability for various air platforms.
The AL-51F1 is a next-generation turbofan engine that integrates advanced technologies for both efficiency and performance. It features a twin-shaft design, a standard configuration in modern military aircraft engines, and operates with an afterburner to provide increased thrust. The fan consists of three stages driven by a single-stage low-pressure turbine, while a five-stage high-pressure compressor is driven by a single-stage high-pressure turbine.
This sophisticated design allows the AL-51F1 to provide an impressive thrust-to-weight ratio. The engine generates 11,000 kgf of thrust in dry mode, which can be increased to 18,000 kgf when the afterburner is activated. These figures make it a powerful and efficient option for aircraft operating at high speeds and altitudes.
The specific gravity of the AL-51F1 engine is 0.078, which measures its mass relative to the thrust it generates, ensuring that it remains lightweight while delivering substantial power. With a dry weight of 1,400 kg, the engine’s design maximizes performance without compromising fuel efficiency.
The integration of the AL-51F1 engine with the S-70 "Okhotnik" UAV represents a key advancement in unmanned aircraft technology. The Okhotnik is expected to benefit from the engine's increased thrust, allowing it to carry out longer missions with larger payloads while maintaining agility and speed. Additionally, the engine’s fuel efficiency will allow the UAV to extend its operational range, a crucial factor for extended combat scenarios.
Similarly, the Su-57 fighter, already equipped with the more powerful AL-41F1 engine, will see its performance improved with the introduction of the AL-51F1 in its operational versions. The synergy between the Su-57 and the S-70 "Okhotnik," both powered by this new engine, will likely redefine Russia's air combat capabilities, offering more flexibility and precision in modern warfare.
Russia and the United States are developing similar strategies to integrate combat drones (UAVs) with their fighter jets to enhance their air capabilities. In Russia, the S-70 "Okhotnik" UAV is designed to work in synergy with the Su-57 "Felon," providing greater flexibility on the battlefield by combining strikes, reconnaissance, and air superiority. In the United States, the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program aims to integrate autonomous drones, known as "Loyal Wingman," to accompany manned fighters, offering additional capabilities while reducing risks to human pilots. Both nations are thus seeking to maximize synergies between manned and unmanned platforms to maintain their air superiority in modern conflicts.
The pairing of the heavy strike UAV S-70 "Okhotnik" with the AL-51F1 engine marks an important milestone in Russia's military aviation program. With its high thrust, fuel efficiency, and advanced design, the AL-51F1 engine is set to play a key role in the future of Russia's air power. As the S-70 "Okhotnik" and the Su-57 move closer to full operational availability, their combined capabilities are expected to provide an undeniable advantage in the skies, ensuring that Russia remains at the forefront of military innovation.