Cost-optimized Russian Su‑75 Fighter seeks prospective partners for development program

The Rostec-owned United Aircraft Corporation has been receiving feedback from potential buyers about the Checkmate project. Taking into account the additional requirements suggested by potential partners, the company has managed to optimize costs while analyzing technical solutions. This strategy has increased the aircraft's competitiveness and commercial appeal, reducing the technical risk associated with manufacturing this domestically-produced, single-engine aircraft.

The EurAsian Times suggests that these strategic efforts could potentially pique India's interest in the Su-75 development project. The Kremlin has already attempted to persuade India to join the endeavor during the 2023 Aero India exhibition.

However, India has expressed caution due to past issues experienced with the PAK FA program (related to the construction of the Su-57 fighter), specifically those involving disagreements over technology transfers and the aircraft's specifications. Since India is already working on its own fifth-generation AMCA fighter and Russia has yet to produce a single Su-75 prototype, there hasn't been much interest from Delhi in joining the Su-75 development program.

The Su-75 (LTS Checkmate) is a lightweight, Russian, fifth-generation fighter jet. The project and the model were first revealed to the public in 2021 at the International Air and Space Salon MAKS 2021. The unveiling highlighted the aircraft's high-performance capabilities and cost-effective operating rates. At that time, it was announced that the stealth technology-enabled fighter was set to take its first flight in 2023, with mass production beginning in 2026. Originally, the fighter was intended for use by the Russian armed forces and for export. However, the development program for this fifth-generation Russian fighter has faced severely delays, and so far, there haven't been any buyers.

According to available information, the Su-75 Checkmate can fly at a speed of 1.8 Mach and has an operational range of around 1740 miles. Aviation Week reports that its maximum takeoff weight is approximately 57300 pounds, which includes a combat load capacity of 16300 pounds. As noted earlier the Su-75 is expected to be capable of operating in heavy electronic warfare (EWR) conditions and simultaneously attacking multiple targets.