Moscow: Russia has flown the Sukhoi Su-57M fighter aircraft with artificial intelligence (AI) system for the first time. This aircraft took its first flight with AI on May 15. The Su-57 is jointly built by Russia's United Aircraft Corporation [UAC] and Sukhoi Design Bureau. It is a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet designed to enhance Russia's air combat capabilities. During a presentation in Moscow, test pilot Sergei Bogdan said that this milestone is a significant leap in Russia's pursuit of a state-of-the-art multirole fighter jet designed for air superiority, ground attack and maritime attack missions.
Russia is flying aircraft with artificial intelligence
Equipped with artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled systems, advanced stealth architecture and long-range radar, the Su-57M aims to redefine the technical norms of a modern fighter jet. This capability underlines Russia's commitment to advancing its aerospace industry despite ongoing challenges, offering a glimpse into the future of its air force.
Get to know the Russian Su-57 fighter
The Su-57M, an upgraded version of the baseline Su-57, is the product of Russia's PAK FA (Prospective Aeronautical Complex of Front-Line Aviation) program. It was initiated in 1999 to develop a stealth technology-equipped successor to the MiG-29 and Su-27. The original Su-57 fighter first flew in 2010 and was inducted into the Russian army in limited quantities in 2020. However, the aircraft faced production delays and technical hurdles, exacerbated by international sanctions following Russia's actions in Ukraine.
How many Su-57 aircraft in the Russian Air Force
According to UAC chief Yuri Slyusar, by 2023, only 12 Su-57s were delivered to the Russian Aerospace Forces. However, there were plans to build 20 more Su-57 aircraft in 2024, but no new information has been shared on this. The Su-57M, developed under the Megapolis program, addresses these shortcomings with advanced mission systems, improved reliability and a new engine, aimed at positioning Russia competitively against Western fifth-generation fighters such as the U.S. F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II.
Will India buy Su-57 aircraft
At Aero India 2025, Russia offered India to co-produce the Su-57E variant by leveraging the existing Su-30MKI infrastructure, but India's focus is on its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft [AMCA], making acceptance unlikely. However, it is also being said that India may buy Su-57 aircraft from Russia in limited quantities, given the strength of the aircraft and its immediate needs.
