Aero India – Sukhoi unveils its stealth SU-57E for export
During Aero India air show Russian Sukhoi showcased the export variant of Sukhoi its Su-57E twin engine stealth multirole combat aircraft. The Su-57 is the first aircraft in Russian military service designed with stealth technology and is intended to serve as the basis for a family of stealth combat aircraft
In addition to its stealth capabilities, the Su-57E emphasizes super-maneuverability around all axes, large internal weapons bays for multirole versatility, and advanced sensor systems such as an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. It also boasts the integration of these systems to achieve high levels of automation. Designed to perform various missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and electronic warfare, all in full stealth mode, the aircraft will also guide squadrons of S-70 “Ohotnik” combat drones, all under the supervision of onboard artificial intelligence.
It is capable of a wide range of combat operations against aerial, ground, and naval targets day and night, using guided and unguided munitions.
Differences between the Su-57E and Su-57
The Su-57E features a sophisticated avionics suite, including the Sh121 AESA radar, which ensures high-precision target detection and extensive radar coverage, even in hostile environments with active jamming systems. The avionics suite of the Su-57E is designed to withstand electronic warfare (EW) threats and is equipped with jamming-resistant systems that allow the fighter to operate effectively even in environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference.
In terms of armament, the Su-57E is equipped with 12 hardpoints, including six internal fuselage hardpoints that preserve its stealth profile. This configuration allows it to carry a diverse combat load, including air-to-air missiles, bombs, and advanced precision-guided munitions. The maximum combat load is 10 tones.
It is powered by two AL-41F1 turbofan engines, each delivering 14,500 kg of thrust, giving it the ability to reach a maximum speed of 1,350 km/h at low altitude and a maximum speed of 2,600 km/h. Its flight range can reach f up to 7,800 km with in-flight refueling.
The Su-57E is highly maneuverable thanks to advanced thrust vectoring technology that enables it to perform complex aerial maneuvers, which are crucial for close air combat and evasion. These qualities were demonstrated during its flight demonstrations at Aero India 2025.
The stealth characteristics of the Su-57E, include reduced radar, infrared, and visual signature, allowing it to penetrate defended areas and engage targets with minimal risk of detection, making it a powerful tool for offensive and intelligence-gathering missions in contested environments. The aircraft’s stealth characteristic is enhanced by the shape of the fuselage, as well as by the use of reflective and absorbent coating materials, and by electronic warfare capabilities.
The Su-57E has an empty mass of 18,500 kg and a maximum take-off mass of 34,000 kg. Its wingspan is 14 meters and a wing area of 78.8 m2; the aircraft is 19.7 metres long and 4.8 metres high. In the export version the flight instrument software is adjusted to display reading in imperial units.
It should also be noted that during its future development the engine of the Su-57E might be replaced with the Izdeliye 30, which would provide an even greater trust. Apparently, Algeria will be the first country to acquire the latest development of the Sukhoi fighter.
Photo by J. Roukoz
