Engineers at the Sukhoi Design Bureau (part of UAC) have patented the fifth-generation Su-75 Checkmate fighter, which has a replaceable nose section. Depending on the combat missions, the pilot's cockpit is replaced with a drone nose section.
The fighter-drone configuration is necessary for reconnaissance. By reducing the overall weight, the flight duration of the Su-75 is increased.
The description of the invention by the Sukhoi Design Bureau emphasizes that it is a low-observable aircraft with a single engine. The technical characteristics specified in the patent coincide with the capabilities of the Su-75.
In addition to the unmanned version, the engineers have also provided for two other versions of the Checkmate: with a cockpit for one or two pilots. All three versions of the fighter will have a unified fuselage with tail assembly, landing gear, and wings.
It was previously reported that African countries are interested in cooperating with Russia along military lines. In particular, Nigeria would like to purchase Su-75 aircraft.