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Russia to Present Su-57E Multirole Fighter Internationally for First Time in China.
The Russian defense conglomerate Rostec State Corporation is set to unveil its latest aviation advancements at Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai, marking a significant milestone with the first international flight demonstration of the fifth-generation Su-57E multirole fighter. This highly anticipated event, which will take place from November 12 to 17, will showcase Russia’s cutting-edge military technologies to an international audience.
The Su-57E is an export version of the Su-57, a fifth-generation multirole fighter developed by Russian manufacturer Sukhoi. (Picture source: Russian Media)
Visitors at Airshow China will have the opportunity to explore a range of advanced Russian aviation systems at the Rosoboronexport pavilion. The exhibit will feature products from prominent defense entities such as United Aircraft Corporation, United Engine Corporation, High-Precision Systems, and Russian Helicopters. The centerpiece of the display will be the Su-57E, an export variant of Russia’s fifth-generation fighter, designed for high-precision, multi-role combat missions. Known for its low radar visibility and extensive use of stealth technology, the Su-57E will be displayed both on the ground and in flight, demonstrating its agility and advanced capabilities through an acrobatic flight program.
The Su-57E boasts sophisticated avionics and a high-precision arsenal, including the X-69 stealth cruise missile, which the company claims has been tested against advanced air defense systems such as Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS. According to Sergey Chemezov, CEO of Rostec, the Su-57 stands out as the only fifth-generation fighter that has proven its combat effectiveness against modern air defense networks. The aircraft's debut in China is expected to attract significant interest from defense specialists and potential buyers, reflecting its strong export potential.
The Su-57E is an export version of the Su-57, a fifth-generation multirole fighter developed by Russian manufacturer Sukhoi. In service since December 2020, this aircraft represents the pinnacle of Russian aerospace technology. Designed for diverse missions, the Su-57E combines air superiority capabilities with flexibility for ground attack missions. Its maiden flight, conducted on January 29, 2010, marked the start of an ambitious program to equip Russia with a stealthy and powerful aircraft suited to modern conflict theaters.
The Su-57E is powered by two AL-41F1 turbofan engines with afterburners and thrust vectoring nozzles, delivering 149 kN of thrust. A future engine, the Izdeliye 30, is expected to provide even greater thrust. These engines allow the aircraft to reach an impressive top speed of 2,600 km/h, or about Mach 2.45, and an operational ceiling of 20,000 meters. Highly agile, the Su-57E also features a climb rate of 21,000 meters per minute, enabling rapid interception capabilities.
In terms of dimensions, the Su-57E spans 14 meters in wingspan, measures 19.7 meters in length, and stands 4.8 meters tall, with a wing area of 78.8 m². This fighter has an empty weight of 18,500 kg, with a maximum takeoff weight of 37,000 kg. It can carry up to 10,300 kg of fuel, granting it a combat range of 1,800 km and a flight endurance of 5.3 hours, allowing it to cover vast distances without frequent refueling.
The Su-57E’s weaponry is notably versatile and adaptable. It is equipped with an internal 30 mm GSh-30-1 cannon and two main weapon bays located in tandem between the engines, capable of carrying precision-guided missiles and bombs. In addition, two auxiliary bays can house air-to-air missiles on the flanks. Six pylons under the wings allow for additional weaponry, including nuclear-capable payloads, enhancing its effectiveness on combat fronts and its adaptability against various threat types.
The avionics suite of the Su-57E includes the Sh121 AESA radar, an advanced active electronically scanned array radar that ensures high-precision target detection and extensive radar coverage, even in hostile environments with active jamming systems. This suite of technologies provides the Su-57E with low radar visibility, making it an ideal stealth fighter for deep penetration missions behind enemy lines.
Overall, the Su-57E is a versatile combat platform designed to meet the needs of various armed forces worldwide. Its high-altitude performance, speed, and weapon capabilities allow it to maintain air superiority, while its sophisticated avionics enable it to remain stealthy and formidable against modern defense systems.
Alexander Mikheev, General Director of Rosoboronexport, expressed confidence in the event’s potential to reinforce defense cooperation between Russia and China. He emphasized that the record number of new Russian defense products on display is likely to attract considerable interest from international delegates and defense experts.
Airshow China, one of the world’s largest exhibitions for civil and military aviation, is expected to host a wide range of innovations from aerospace companies around the globe. Rostec’s participation underscores Russia’s commitment to expanding its international defense partnerships and highlights its position as a significant player in the global aerospace industry.