Aero India 2025: The curious case of Sukhoi Su-57 ‘Felon’ stealth fighter jet

Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 is the 5th generation multirole stealth fighter jet that is expected to succeed the Soviet-era MiG-29 and Su-27 fighters. Acclaimed for its eccentric design and innovation, the jet is caught in sluggish progress and production delays.

One of the most important and exceptional fighter jets that were on display at the just concluded Aero India 2025 event is the Sukhoi Su-57. The Russian-made, next-generation twin-jet stealth fighter made its first public appearance in India this time, showcasing its cutting-edge technology and capabilities.

The codename ‘Felon‘ is the Su-57’s reporting name in NATO’s parlance. It is considered as strategic rival to some of the West-made fighter jets like the American F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II. The Russian jet’s advanced capabilities challenge the Western dominance in modern aerial warfare.

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Having said that, much of its advanced claimed capabilities and innovative technologies have long been in question for several years. That’s because of Russia’s inability to progress the development of this next-gen stealth fighter jet programme in quick span of time and secure production orders.

The Su-57 programme, internally codenamed as T-50, began in 1999. The jet was conceived for a maximum degree of low-observability (stealthiness) and multi-role capabilities. It was developed as a possible replacement to the Soviet-era jets such as the MiG-29 and Su-27. The first prototype flew in 2010, followed by inordinate delays in development and testing stages till date.

In fact, it is this delayed development and lack of transparency in its R&D reportedly led India to back out from the Su-57 programme, as reported in 2018. Reports also suggest that the aircraft will not be ready for series production right until 2027 citing engine upgrades.

This indeed clarifies the lack of confirmed orders for the Russian jet at the global level until now. Just yesterday, Algeria confirmed its order for Su-57, becoming the first country to officially order this fifth-gen stealth fighter jet. To be clear, the aircraft is already deployed in limited numbers by the Russian Aerospace Forces.

Eccentric design, innovative concepts

Aviation experts agree that the Su-57 is not like every other modern stealth fighters. Unlike the Western fighters, the jet is said to lack high-end, low observable design and key features. Usually, Russian aircrafts are like that, thanks to a different set of design expertise, material and manufacturing sciences, and choice of local equipment.

However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the Su-57 is inferior or irrelevant. It is, in fact, considered as phenomenal for a host of innovative design elements and tech concepts incorporated into it. It’s stealth performance is also very different from other fighters we have seen so far.

Take for instance, the active electronically scanned array (AESA) X-band side-facing radars. They supplement the X-band N036 Byelka (Squirrel) AESA radar located on the nose of the aircraft. This enhances the situational awareness for the pilot, and even enable her to perform ‘beaming’ tactic to escape from enemy’s pulse doppler radar array.

In terms of weaponry and self-defence too, the Su-57 is unique different. It has a host of missile launch detectors and laser beam turrets to blind an incoming missile. It’s tandem weapon bay can carry 4-6 medium range air-to-air missiles with it at one time.

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The Sukhoi Su-57 can supercruise (without using afterburner) at Mach 1.3, with a top speed of up to Mach 2. Its subsonic range is pegged at 3,500, while it can clock 1,500 kms at supersonic speeds. The actual capabilities of this Russian jet are subject to much speculation, as a lot of information about the aircraft is classified.

Despite its market potential, the Su-57 programme continues to face challenges and uncertainties. Yet, the stealth fighter is a testimony to Russia’s military modernization. It is a force to be reckoned with in modern military aviation.

Images Credit: Aero India 2025 Official via X.com