Developing a sixth-generation fighter is key to maintaining Russia's leading position in operational-tactical aviation, according to Vadim Badekha, CEO of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC). He stated that the industry's human resources are fundamental to the corporation's success in achieving this goal.

The Russian aviation industry is currently focused on the refinement and serial production of the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter. Earlier, on May 7, Rostec announced the start of flight tests of the Su-57 with a new second-stage engine (Product 30). This powerplant offers a number of key advantages: it enables supersonic cruising without the use of afterburners, has reduced fuel consumption in all modes, and an increased service life.

The development of the sixth-generation aircraft is being carried out as part of the PAK DA (Prospective Long-Range Aviation Complex) research and development project. It entails developing a combat aircraft with a number of new features, including super-maneuverability, stealth, intelligent crew support (artificial intelligence), and the ability to fly unmanned. A specific timeline for the new fighter's launch has not yet been disclosed. Previously, in 2024, Rostec reported that work on the sixth-generation aircraft was already underway, but it would not replicate the design of the American NGAD.