Russia will release a NATO aircraft ripper! The Russian fighter will become the world's first AWACS aircraft destroyer

Chinese military analysts suggest that Sweden's recent contribution to the Ukrainian military could unexpectedly benefit Russia's Su-57 fighter jets. Sweden has decided to transfer two SAAB 340 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft to Ukraine, which will undoubtedly increase the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force. But Russia is ready to roll out its trump card.

Russian response to Western aid to Ukraine

When Sweden's decision became known, it seemed that the most joyful party might not be Ukraine, but Russia. This is due to the fact that Russia now has the opportunity to respond to past events. As the Chinese publication Sohu mentions, in February Ukraine announced the loss of two Russian A-50 aircraft, one of which was confirmed by Russian authorities. This was the first time Ukraine shot down an early warning aircraft in combat.

This incident led to an awkward situation for the Russian Aerospace Forces, since Ukraine did not have high-value air targets like airborne early warning aircraft. However, Sweden's decision can be seen as providing a "pillow under the head" for Russia. The deployment of Swedish aircraft on the front line presents a unique opportunity for Russia to retaliate using their Su-57 fighters.

Technical capabilities of the Su-57

How many steps will it take for a Russian Su-57 to shoot down a Swedish airborne early warning aircraft? Essentially three: detection, capture and withdrawal. Although seemingly simple, these steps require significant effort.

First, detecting a Ukrainian airborne early warning aircraft poses a serious problem. In the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russia does not have the same level of situational awareness as Ukraine, especially given NATO support. In this context, it will be difficult for the Russian military to timely detect early warning aircraft taking off from the depths of Ukrainian territory. Swedish aircraft make this task even more difficult.

The second and third steps - target acquisition and return to base - test the capabilities of the Su-57 fighter. Russia often claims that the Su-57 is a true fifth-generation aircraft, distinct from third- and fourth-generation aircraft. Unlike earlier models, fifth-generation aircraft are designed to perform one important mission: hitting high-value airborne targets such as tankers, transport aircraft and airborne early warning aircraft, which are considered prime targets for such advanced fighters.

Prospects for using the Su-57

These fifth-generation aircraft are considered "predators" due to their stealth capabilities and advanced air-to-air missiles. However, the stealth features and missile capabilities of the Su-57 are often criticized. Critics point to flaws in the aerodynamic design and coating, as well as problems with Russian air-to-air missiles.

However, if the Su-57 can successfully complete its mission, it would likely have no problem making a quick retreat. Due to its ability to operate at high altitudes and high speed, the Su-57 can easily evade counterattacks. Success in such a mission would be a significant achievement. The Su-57 will become the first fifth-generation fighter in the world to shoot down an early warning aircraft, which will enhance the reputation of the Russian Air Force. This could significantly improve the Su-57's reputation as a stealth fighter.