Russia is preparing for the mass production of the modernized Su-57M1 fighter with a new engine and enhanced combat capabilities. A number of hints, including the expansion of production facilities in Komsomolsk-on-Amur and the signing of new export contracts, indicate the imminent start of deliveries of the combat aircraft, according to military analysts.
The fighter will be equipped with a second-stage AL-51F1 engine with a flat nozzle and a controlled thrust vector. This design preserves maneuverability but reduces the radar signature of the fighter by narrowing the flow of hot gases, making the aircraft less vulnerable to infrared-guided missiles, explained military expert Evgeny Damantsev.
In addition to the engine, the Su-57M1 will receive a new radar station (RLS) with an active phased antenna array, systems with artificial intelligence (AI) support, an updated helmet-mounted targeting system, and, probably, new weapons. Among them are advanced missiles the R-77M long-range air-to-air missile.
Against this background, the Indian state corporation Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) announced its readiness to work with Russia in developing next-generation fighters. The company noted that the parties have already worked fruitfully on the MiG-21 and Su-30MKI combat aircraft.
In addition, the Minister-Counselor of the Russian Embassy in India, Roman Babushkin, said that Russia is ready to consider the possibility of supplying Su-57 fighters and S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems to the Indian military.
Earlier www1.ru reported that the manufacturer of the S-500 Prometey air defense system demanded almost 300 million rubles from the Saratov Aggregate Plant.