On May 15, 2025, Russia introduced an upgraded version of its stealth fighter jet, called the Su-57M1. This advanced jet was revealed by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) and the Sukhoi Design Bureau in Moscow. It includes smart AI systems, better stealth features, and powerful radar, making it one of Russia’s most advanced fighter jets.
Test pilot Sergei Bogdan said the new Su-57M is designed for air combat, attacking ground targets, and missions over the sea. It is an improved version of the older Su-57 and was developed to match or beat other modern jets like the American F-22 and F-35.
The jet has been redesigned for better speed and control, and it can fly at high speeds without needing extra fuel boost. Its body is made from special lightweight materials that help it stay hidden from enemy radar. It also has powerful new engines that allow it to fly up to 2,600 km/h and cover long distances without refueling.
Inside, the Su-57M uses AI to help the pilot. With one button, the plane can start up quickly. The AI also helps with flying, finding targets, and checking for problems, which lets the pilot focus on missions.
The radar system can see in all directions and track up to 60 targets at once, while attacking 8 of them. It can also detect enemies up to 400 km away. The jet stores most of its weapons inside to stay stealthy. These include long-range and short-range missiles, as well as bombs and hypersonic weapons.
To protect itself, the jet has advanced electronic systems that jam enemy radars and warn the pilot of incoming missiles. It also has an infrared system to find targets without using radar, keeping it hidden during missions.
The Su-57M has already been tested in real situations. Earlier models flew missions in Syria and during the Ukraine conflict. The new version is expected to handle more dangerous tasks, including entering heavily defended airspace.
Making this jet hasn’t been easy. Sanctions and lack of foreign parts slowed production. But Russia is now making more of the jets at its Komsomolsk-on-Amur factory. Mass production is expected to start in 2025.
This fighter is designed to last for 40–50 years and can be upgraded over time. Russia also plans to use it to control drones like the S-70 Okhotnik.
Compared to Western jets, the Su-57M is cheaper (about $50 million) and faster, but not as stealthy as the F-22. It is more maneuverable than the F-35 and better for close combat.
Russia hopes to sell this jet to other countries. Some nations have shown interest, but deals are still unclear. India was offered a co-production deal, but it may stick with its own aircraft program.
Overall, the Su-57M is a big step forward in Russia’s military aviation and shows how it is using AI and new technologies to stay competitive.
Source: bulgarianmilitary
