The new Russian fifth-generation light fighter Su-75 Checkmate has every chance of becoming the first truly mass-produced aircraft of the new generation in domestic aviation. Its predecessor, the Su-57, took almost two decades to reach mass production, and is now being produced at a rate of about 10–12 aircraft per year.
However, the Su-75 has a different situation — its development is based on the principles of unification, modularity, and already existing technologies.
Why the Su-75 Will Surge Ahead
The main advantage is the absence of "teething problems" of a pioneer. The Su-57 was created from scratch — new materials, avionics, stealth coatings, and engines required many years of testing. But now all of this has already been worked out. The Su-75 is assembled literally from technological blocks tested on previous projects.
We are talking about the reliable and long-certified AL-41F-1 engine (product 117S) from the Su-35S. Avionics and electronic warfare systems are from the Su-57 and MiG-35, already adapted to modern software.
Stealth technologies were also completely adopted from the Su-57 and the S-70 Okhotnik UAV.
Single-Engine Revolution
The Su-75 will be the first Russian fifth-generation fighter with a single engine, which will drastically reduce production and operating costs. Fewer parts mean a higher production rate and easier maintenance. According to rough estimates, the cost of the aircraft will be almost half that of the Su-57.
In addition, the project is initially export-oriented, which accelerates all stages — from testing to certification. Countries in the Middle East and Asia, seeking an alternative to the American F-35, are already showing interest in the aircraft.
Evolution, Not Simplification
The Su-75 is not a "cut-down Su-57" but the next step in the evolution of Russian combat aircraft. It inherits all the best from its predecessors, avoiding their mistakes.
And if the Su-57 became an expensive lesson for the industry, then the Su-75 is a diploma of completed training. That is why it will enter large-scale production much faster than the fifth-generation flagship.
Earlier www1.ru reported that the latest Sarmat intercontinental missiles will go on combat duty in 2026.