Russia is developing the S-71K Kover cruise missile with a range of 300km for the Su-57.
The S-71K Kover missile is specifically designed for the Su-57 stealth fighter, boasting a range of 300km and a multinational electronic component system.
The S-71K "Kover" is a new generation air-launched cruise missile developed by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) to optimize the capabilities of the Su-57 stealth fighter. The Ukrainian Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR) recently published detailed technical specifications and a 3D model of this weapon.
Design features and combat capabilities
The most notable feature of the S-71K "Kover" lies in its unique fuel system. The missile uses a main fuel tank combined with two auxiliary tanks on either side, allowing for a maximum range of up to 300 km. This design significantly extends the attack range of the launching aircraft without needing to penetrate deep into the enemy's air defense detection zone.
In terms of firepower, the S-71K is equipped with a high-explosive fragmentation bomb (OFAB-250-270) weighing 250 kg. This air-launched munition is integrated directly into the nose cone of the missile, ensuring significant destructive power against ground targets. The Russian military conducted its first field tests of this product late last year.
Technical structure and navigation system
The S-71K missile body is constructed from a multi-layered fiberglass-based composite material, combined with additional reinforcement to optimize weight and strength. The internal frame components are made of aluminum alloy to ensure structural stability throughout flight.
The missile's propulsion system is based on the Reynolds R500 turbojet engine. Notably, the S-71K's inertial guidance and control system uses relatively simple sensors. According to analysis from the War&Sanctions portal, most of the internal electronic components originate from various countries such as the United States, China, Switzerland, Japan, Germany, Taiwan, and Ireland.
Prospects for cross-platform integration
Besides equipping the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet, Russian developers are considering integrating this missile into the heavy stealth unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) S-70 "Okhotnik". The combination of stealth UAVs and long-range cruise missiles is expected to create a significant advantage in precision air strike operations.
