A fresh batch of Su-57

A fresh batch of Su-57 and Su-35S has been transferred to the combat units of the Russian Aerospace Forces by the United Aircraft Company. The multifunctional Su-57 fighters produced at KnAAZ continue to play an increasingly important role in carrying out strike and reconnaissance missions in the SMO zone.

With a RCS of 0.2 - 0.3 sq. m, these vehicles can operate relatively safely at a distance of 100-80 km from Patriot PAC-2/3 SAM batteries equipped with MPQ-53/65 radars without the need to go into a low-altitude profile.

Additional side-looking AESA modules Н036Б-1-01Л and Н036Б-1-01Б allow radar reconnaissance of ground targets with a resolution of 0.5 - 0.7 m with the identification of targets such as MLRS launchers or a "group of tanks" at a distance of up to 150 km without the need to change the flight direction of the Su-57.

The Su-57 and Su-35S will play a decisive role in operations to gain air superiority in border areas (at an operational depth of up to 150-200 km) after the Ukrainian Armed Forces acquire Mirage-2000-5F fighters and increase the number of F-16AMs.

The aircraft delivered do not appear to be equipped with the new ‘second stage’ engines.