Russia lands first export deal for stealthy Su‑57 fighter
In an interview with "Rossiya-1" TV, the head of the Rosoboronexport corporation, Alexander Mikheyev, confirmed that Russia has successfully signed its first contract to export fifth-generation Su-57 fighters. The buyer of the Russian aircraft remains unknown, although several potential clients have been unofficially mentioned.
9:07 PM EST, November 16, 2024
On Wednesday, November 13, the Interfax agency reported that Rosoboronexport signed a contract for the sale of Su-57 fighters. This information was confirmed by Alexander Mikheyev, the head of the corporation, in an interview with the "Rossiya-1" channel. According to Mikheyev, the contract is part of a broader strategy by Russia aimed at introducing new types of weapons and military technologies into international markets. The head of Rosoboronexport also emphasized that Russia has gained the trust of its partners, who are now eager to purchase "reliable and proven" weapons.
Russia found a buyer for the Su-57
Despite the official announcement, details regarding the date of signing the agreement and the identity of the buyer have not been disclosed. This has sparked numerous speculations, especially on social media, where some experts see it as confirmation of Russia's success, while others remain skeptical, describing it as potential propaganda. The contract announcement coincided with the presentation of the Su-57E, the export version of the fighter, at the international Zhuhai Air Show in China, which is taking place from November 12 to 17.
In 2021, Mikheyev revealed that Rosoboronexport is in talks with five countries interested in purchasing the Su-57. Among the potential buyers mentioned were India, Algeria, Vietnam, and Turkey. As reported by the Eurasian Times, unconfirmed reports suggest it could be Algeria that signed the agreement, which would significantly impact the regional balance of power. However, Algeria has not confirmed this information as of now.
While Russia boasts of success with the first export contract for its fifth-generation fighters, it is important to remember that the Su-57 faces many challenges. The aircraft, developed by Sukhoi and produced at the KnAAZ plant, had its first flight in 2010 and only entered service ten years later in 2020. Since then, fewer than 40 units have been produced due to production limitations and issues related to Western sanctions.
Experts point out that the Russian invasion of Ukraine further complicated the situation and did not enhance the reputation of the Su-57. Its limited role in the conflict and the fear of its potential loss have decreased the confidence of potential clients. Additionally, analyses by Western experts suggest that the aircraft's radar cross-section (RCS) is larger than that of competing fighters like the F-35, undermining its edge in stealth technology.
