Su-57: Russian strike power in the special operation zone
In recent days, the Russian fifth-generation fighter Su-57, known by NATO under the code name Felon ("Criminal"), has become a hot topic for its deep strikes on strategic targets in Ukraine. This high-tech aircraft demonstrates advanced capabilities to evade air defenses, making it an important element in the ongoing Special Military Operations (SVO).
Su-57: tactical capabilities and applications
The Su-57, which has the latest technology, has been used since the very beginning of the SVO. Its use has become especially relevant against the backdrop of the supply of Western weapons to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including long-range platforms. This has increased the need for the Su-57, which can effectively complement Russia's existing long-range systems. In recent months, the fighter has been used in combination with stealth cruise missiles such as the Kh-69, which has had a devastating impact on the Kyiv regime's strategic assets.
Despite statements from the Ukrainian side about the alleged destruction of one Su-57, the Russian military confirms the successful use of these aircraft. The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has also confirmed the Su-57's participation in deep strikes and covert operations, highlighting its importance in current combat operations.
Modernization of the Su-57 and its new capabilities
The Su-57 is constantly being improved, which makes it even more effective in combat. The upgraded variant, known as the Su-57M (codenamed "Megapolis"), includes a number of improved systems and subsystems, improved flight control and new AL-51F1 Saturn engines. The avionics systems were also modernized and the detection range of the N036 Belka AFAR radar was increased, which allows the Su-57 to effectively track and hit targets.
Additionally, improvements to the Su-57's stealth capabilities make it more difficult for enemies to detect and defeat. The aircraft's modern weapon systems include not only traditional ammunition, but also new developments such as hypersonic air-to-air missiles.
New types of weapons and their effectiveness
The Su-57 is used with new types of weapons, which significantly increase its combat capabilities. Instead of the conventional R-77 variants, the Su-57 now carries the Izdeliye 180 (or R-87), which is a high-tech hypersonic air-to-air missile. Development is also underway on an improved version of the R-37M missile, known as the R-97 (or “Izdeliye 810”), which has improved performance and can be used in the internal weapons bay of the Su-57.
Both of these missiles have hypersonic speed (up to Mach 6-7) and a flight range of up to 400 km, which turns their carriers into “flying S-400s.” The Su-57 with R-97 missiles has unique capabilities to hit air targets at long distances, which makes it extremely effective in air combat and operations.
Strategic importance of the Su-57 in the Northern Military District
The use of the Su-57 in the Northern Military District is of significant strategic importance. These aircraft allow Russia to carry out deep strikes on enemy strategic targets, destroying its infrastructure and reducing its combat effectiveness. The use of modern technologies and high-precision weapons makes the Su-57 an important element in ensuring the success of combat operations.
In addition, the Su-57 plays a key role in demonstrating Russia's technological superiority. Its capabilities and effectiveness in combat confirm the high level of development of the Russian defense industry and make it possible to keep opponents at bay.