The S-71K "Kovyor" and S-71M "Monochrome" drones developed for the Su-57 fighter are designed to escort and intercept air-to-air missiles. They are capable of covering the aircraft, explained Yuri Knutov, a military expert and historian of air defense forces.
He recalled that the Su-57 carries very powerful weapons, and the Kh-69 is the longest-range in the world.
Therefore, drones will not replace aviation missiles, but they will be able to cover the aircraft from missiles and drones and attack ground targets. This is a new type of weapon, but not a replacement for long-range missiles.
Knutov emphasized that drones perform an auxiliary function, increasing the fighter's protection.
Military analyst Evgeny Damantsev clarified that the S-71K "Kovyor" drone is equipped with inertial navigation and optoelectronic systems, as well as GLONASS correction modules. The fighter carries it on external hardpoints.
The S-71M "Monochrome" is a more advanced autonomous version. It received optoelectronic sensors and a thermal imager for round-the-clock use, can loiter in the target area and select an object for attack based on the data entered.