Engineers of the Sukhoi Design Bureau (part of UAC) have patented the fifth-generation Su-75 Checkmate fighter, which received a replaceable nose section. Depending on the combat missions, the pilot's cockpit is replaced with the head of a drone.
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 of the Sukhoi Design Bureau emphasizes that this is a low-visibility aircraft with one engine. The technical characteristics indicated in the patent coincide with the capabilities of the Su-75.
In addition to the unmanned version, the engineers provided for two more versions of Checkmate: with a cockpit for one or two pilots. All three versions of the fighter will receive a single fuselage with tail, chassis and wings.
It was previously reported that African countries are interested in cooperation with Russia along military lines. In particular, Nigeria would like to purchase Su-75 aircraft.