
According to The Telegraph, Russia faces significant challenges in the production of its advanced Su-57 combat aircraft, primarily due to Western sanctions that limit access to essential electronic components, including the German MPPU-50 communication modules. Although these components are not entirely inaccessible, obtaining them often requires illicit means and intermediaries, which increases costs and complicates delivery schedules, thereby hindering effective strategic planning for aviation manufacturing.
The Telegraph reports, referencing sources such as the Ukrainian think tank Frontelligence Insight, that these sanctions could impose long-term constraints on Russia’s aviation sector, even as Moscow claims to be increasing Su-57 output. Currently, Russia does not have a domestic equivalent to the German MPPU-50 communication modules necessary for Su-57 production. Efforts to develop indigenous technology have been severely impeded by sanctions that restrict access to high-quality electronic components, especially in microelectronics and communication technology.
In an attempt to address these limitations, Russia is actively pursuing an import substitution strategy to replace foreign technologies with local innovations. However, progress has been slow and fraught with challenges. When local prototypes are developed, they often fall short in quality and reliability compared to Western counterparts like the MPPU-50.
The most recent delivery of Su-57 fighter jets to the Russian military took place on September 12, 2024, when the Russian Air Force received two newly manufactured aircraft. Sukhoi confirmed that these jets underwent thorough factory inspections and various operational tests by pilots from the Russian Ministry of Defense. Vladimir Artyakov, the First Deputy General Director of Rostech, remarked, “The aircraft delivered to the troops exhibit exceptional aerotechnical capabilities, receiving high praise from our pilots. Additional batches of Su-57s are progressing through various production readiness stages. Meanwhile, the Su-35S aircraft remains highly combat-ready.” The head of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) added, “The Russian Air Force continues to enhance its fleet with more fifth-generation fighters annually, with the Su-57 being the most advanced frontline aircraft available in Russia today.”
Before the September delivery, the last Su-57s were received by the Russian Air Force in December 2023. Notably, the exact number of aircraft in that delivery was not officially disclosed, leading to speculation. However, images and videos surfaced showing just two jets. UAC typically shares images of new deliveries on its Telegram account, frequently depicting batches of two planes in line with their usual practices.
In ten months, the Russian Air Force has only added four Su-57 fighters to its inventory, falling short of the Kremlin’s expectations. During 2022 and 2023, the military received four and six jets, respectively, with some reports suggesting annual deliveries could reach about ten. Yet, only one Su-57 has been officially confirmed this year, raising doubts about any further deliveries before the end of the year.
Currently, around 20 Su-57 jets have been mass-produced, which is relatively small compared to Russia’s estimated combat fleet of roughly one thousand aircraft. A formal halt to Su-57 production seems unlikely, as it would present a considerable public relations challenge for President Vladimir Putin’s administration. While updates on new Su-57 deliveries may come intermittently, these will likely be infrequent and limited to a small number of aircraft each year.
The Su-57 is a sophisticated fifth-generation multirole fighter designed for modern aerial combat. It measures approximately 19.8 meters in length, has a wingspan of 14 meters, and stands 4.7 meters tall. With an empty weight of about 18,000 kilograms, it has a maximum take-off weight of 35,000 kilograms.
Equipped with two advanced variable thrust vector engines from Saturn, the Su-57 can exceed Mach 2 and cruise at altitudes of up to 20,000 meters. This engine configuration grants it exceptional agility, allowing for complex aerial maneuvers while maintaining a low profile against enemy radar detection.
The Su-57 features a state-of-the-art fully digital control system that utilizes “fly-by-wire” technology for improved stability and accuracy in piloting, even at high speeds and during intricate maneuvers. Its avionics include an integrated platform with an advanced flight control system, environmental sensors, and multifunction displays. Importantly, it has a system for automatic threat detection and avoidance, along with capabilities for network connectivity with other military units, facilitating real-time mission coordination.
Central to the Su-57’s radar capabilities is the active phased-array N036 “Belka” radar, which can detect and track multiple targets at long ranges, even under heavy interference. The aircraft’s stealth features stem from its specialized design and materials that reduce radar visibility, employing composite materials and radar-absorbing coatings. Additionally, the aircraft’s shape and agility significantly diminish its infrared signature, complicating detection by infrared sensors.
The Su-57 is armed with a versatile array of weapons, including internal bays for air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, as well as precision-guided bombs. Its operational range is between 1,500 and 2,000 kilometers, depending on refueling status and the capability for mid-air refueling. Combining stealth with high speed, agility, and multi-role capabilities, the Su-57 is poised to be a crucial asset in Russia’s military strategy, set to compete with the most advanced Western fighter jets.