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Russia has carried out its first export of the Su-57, the country’s domestically developed fifth-generation fighter jet, officials said.
United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) Director General Vadim Badeha told the state broadcaster Pyerviy Kanal that a foreign customer had already received two Su-57 aircraft.
“Our foreign customer and partner has already taken delivery of the first two aircraft. They have begun combat duty and are demonstrating their best qualities. The customer is satisfied,” Badeha said.
He did not identify the purchasing country, though Russian media reports suggested Algeria as a possible buyer.
The Su-57, developed for the Russian Air Force, features long-range capability, high speed, maneuverability, supercruise without afterburners, short take-off and landing, low radar visibility, internal weapons bays and advanced avionics.
Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev confirmed that export contracts for the Su-57 had been signed, speaking at the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition.
“We have already signed the first contracts for the Su-57. Our presence in the market shows that partners in friendly countries want to purchase Russia’s reliable and proven weapons,” Mikheyev said, adding that export orders help sustain and expand Russia’s defense industry.
State conglomerate Rostec said the export-configured Su-57E drew significant attention at the same exhibition, citing the aircraft’s ability to employ advanced precision weapons and maintain a low radar signature.
Rostec also recently delivered new Su-57 and Su-35S aircraft to the Russian Aerospace Forces.
Rostec CEO Sergey Chemezov said the Su-57 had demonstrated “breakthrough capabilities” in all types of combat use and continues to be developed based on operational experience.
He added that the aircraft, along with the Su-34 and Su-35S, forms part of the company’s ongoing production output.
Chemezov noted that the Su-57’s export version is expected to make its world premiere in China, saying he is confident the aircraft will be well received by foreign specialists.
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