The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has officially confirmed the start of flight tests of a prototype two-seat fifth-generation fighter based on the Su-57. The modification has been designated the Su-57D. To confirm this, UAC has released the first official photographs of the new aircraft in flight.

First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Denis Manturov noted that the aircraft was developed proactively by aircraft manufacturers.

Video: Star

“In addition to its unique combat characteristics, it will also have the functionality of a combat training aircraft and the capabilities of a combat control aircraft,” — Manturov said, commenting on the start of the tests.

Earlier, on May 19, 2026, the Telegram channel Fighterbomber, which is close to the Russian Aerospace Forces, reported that the Su-57D had completed its maiden flight and was awaiting an official announcement from the UAC. News of the maiden flight came a few days after the same source reported that a new two-seat modification had taxied during testing. The development of a two-seat version of the Russian fifth-generation fighter has been discussed for several years, and experts note that the new modification could be used, among other things, as a leader for a group of heavy unmanned aerial vehicles, such as the S-70 Okhotnik.