Russia receives new batch of Su-57 fighters with updated onboard systems, UAC says

Russia has received a new batch of Sukhoi Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets equipped with upgraded onboard systems and an enhanced weapons suite, according to the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), the state-controlled aircraft manufacturer.

UAC said the aircraft were built under a new technical configuration and delivered to the Russian Ministry of Defense after completing factory trials. Defense Ministry pilots reportedly tested the fighters in various operational modes before acceptance.

The company did not disclose how many aircraft were delivered, the specific changes introduced in the updated configuration, or the current pace of serial production. However, one of the images released alongside the announcement appears to show two Su-57 aircraft, though UAC did not confirm the total number handed over.

According to UAC, the revised design is intended to expand the range of combat missions the Su-57 can perform. The manufacturer said the aircraft’s updated weapons system allows the use of new types of air-to-air munitions, though no details were provided. 

Rostec, the Russian state conglomerate that oversees UAC, said the Su-57 has been refined based on operational experience and described the aircraft as effective in frontline operations. The company further stated that the fighter is capable of engaging air, ground and naval targets and can operate around the clock, including in adverse weather and contested electronic environments.

UAC chief executive Vadim Badekha said the fighter has undergone continued development and that further enhancements to its onboard systems and weapons are planned.

The Su-57 is Russia’s primary fifth-generation combat aircraft program and is intended to serve as a multirole platform for the Russian Aerospace Forces. Independent verification of the aircraft’s performance claims or deployment record was not immediately available.

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