Fifth-generation fighters, in a broad sense, are the most sophisticated models that modern technology currently allows for. As such, they’re typically slated to replace existing aircraft as soon as possible. In the case of the F-35A Lightning II, for instance, the United States Air Force declares its F-16s to be an “aging fleet” in comparison. The only other nations that officially boast fifth-generation fighters are China (the J-20) and, of course, Russia with its formidable Su-57.
Being among such lofty company, then, you’d expect that the Su-57 would sport an impressive range of tech specs. The numbers really speak for themselves in that regard. The jet can climb 350 meters in a single second, fly at more than 65,500 feet, and maxes out at Mach 2 (around 1550 mph). All of this is powered by twin Lyulka 117S engines with a combined power output of 28,400 kg.
In terms of general performance, the Felon is more than competitive with the F-22 Raptor, Defence Street notes. It boasts a slightly wider flight range of 2,175 miles versus the Raptor’s 1,840 miles, when considering their base models, and the Raptor is just slightly faster, capable of Mach 2.25. The Su-57’s suite of weaponry, however, is rather different, and there’s a good reason for this. Next, we’ll take a look at the arsenal available to the Su-57.
