Western media highly appreciates Russia's latest Su-57 aircraft
The German publication Stern notes that the relatively low cost of the Su-57 could make the fifth-generation fighter one of the most affordable product offers on the arms market.
The latest batch of fighters will be delivered to the military in 2028. The Russian government has signed a contract with the Sukhoi company for the supply of 76 aircraft, the newspaper noted, citing a statement by Russian Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov.
Three squadrons will be formed from fighter planes.
With fifth-generation fighters, Russia opens up new opportunities, the German edition of Stern said.
By the time the Russian Aerospace Forces receive the most modern Su-57s, the promising German-French stealth fighter will still be in the development stage. And in the event of an “emergency situation,” only outdated Eurofighters will confront the Russian aircraft, Stern believes.
In the second phase of 2019 and 2020, two more Su-57 prototypes will be delivered to the Russian military. Serial production of the aircraft will begin after fighter testing.
The development of fifth- and sixth-generation fighters is important for Russia if it continues to expand its arms exports, the author of the article notes. If the prices quoted in the media are correct ($31 million for one aircraft), the Su-57 will be one of the best bargains on the arms market, the newspaper concludes.
