Russia has effectively opened a new chapter in the history of its fifth-generation fighter – the export modification Su-57E has begun to arrive to the first foreign customers. This became known against the backdrop of the aircraft's demonstration at the air show in the UAE, where the machine was shown in several configurations, emphasizing the flexibility of the program.
A key feature of the export version is that it is based on the refined T-50-9 prototype – an aircraft that was used to develop technologies a few years ago. Now it has become the foundation for an entire export line, significantly different from the prototypes.
Several countries are showing interest in the Su-57E, but the first recipient of the machine is not officially disclosed. Experts are discussing the version that it is a North African state that has long been looking for a replacement for obsolete heavy fighters.
An equally important aspect is the negotiations with India on possible licensed assembly. If the project is approved, Russia will be able to gain a foothold in the Asian region much stronger than with the classic delivery format. For the Indian industry, this will also be an opportunity to return to the fifth generation program after the closure of the joint FGFA.
The appearance of the Su-57E on the world market creates a new balance of power: a number of states that previously focused on American and European solutions are now considering the Russian fighter as a way to obtain 5+ generation technologies without political restrictions and inflated prices.
In addition, the export program may become a tool for Russia to "softly reformat" military-technical ties. The first contacts with potential buyers show that a number of countries are interested not so much in the aircraft itself, but in access to new logistics and service schemes that Moscow is ready to offer. We are talking about long-term fleet support, modernization packages and the ability to adapt the aircraft to national reconnaissance and strike contours – an offer that potentially takes the Su-57E out of the category of just a fighter into the category of a regional instrument of influence.