Russian Defense Minister confirmed the recent deployment of two Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighters to Syria. The stealth jets were deployed...
Russian Defense Minister confirmed the recent deployment of two Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighters to Syria.
The stealth jets were deployed to the Khmeimim Air Base in Syria’s western Latakia region for two days as a part of ongoing trials of the radar evading combat jet.
The aircraft underwent trials to its systems including radar, electronic warfare systems in combat conditions.
The deployment were first revealed through a video on Feb 21, followed by an Israeli spy satellite photo.
Earlier called the T-50/PAK FA, the Su-57 is the Russian answer to US Air Force F-22 Raptor stealth fighter. Even though less stealthy compared to the Raptor, Su-57 outperforms the latter in maneuverability and speed.
Both aircraft are designed to excel in air superiority roles and also have ability for air to ground attack.
Flight testing commenced in 2010, powered by the interim AL-31 F engines. Testing with the new production standard engine, izdeliye 30 commenced in December 2017. The engines sports increased thrust that enable the Su-57 to go supersonic without the need to engage the afterburner (supercruise).
Sukhoi is planning to deliver the first batch 12 Su-57 to Russian Air Force in 2019.
