The first flight of the two-seat version of the Su-57 once again drew attention to one of the main advantages of the Russian fifth-generation fighter – lower operating costs compared to American counterparts. This was noted by experts from Military Watch Magazine.
According to the publication, the maintenance and flight hour costs of the Su-57 remain close to those of 4++ generation aircraft – the Su-27 and Su-30, which it is gradually replacing in the Russian Aerospace Forces. At the same time, the operation of American F-22 and F-35 is significantly more expensive: their flight costs are 60–100 percent higher than those of the F-15 and F-16.
Experts believe that the US transition to fifth-generation fighters has led to a reduction in the aircraft fleet and increased costs for the Air Force. Russia and other countries that may receive the Su-57 are not expected to face similar problems, according to analysts.
Particular attention was drawn to the two-seat version of the aircraft, which first took to the skies five years after development began. The fighter received an extended cockpit canopy, and the second crew member's seat was located behind the pilot.
OAK head Vadim Badeha said that the new modification has good export prospects. Military Watch Magazine also noted that the two-seat Su-57 was initially created primarily with the international market in mind.