Russia secures first Su‑57 export contract amid speculation
In an interview with "Rossiya-1" TV, the head of the Rosoboronexport corporation, Alexander Mikheyev, confirmed that Russia has managed to sign its first contract for exporting fifth-generation Su-57 fighters. The buyer of the Russian aircraft remains unknown, although several potential clients are unofficially mentioned.
On Wednesday, 13 November, the Interfax agency reported that Rosoboronexport signed a contract for selling Su-57 fighters. This information was confirmed by Alexander Mikheyev, the head of the corporation, in an interview for the "Rossiya-1" channel. According to Mikheyev, the contract is part of a broader strategy by Russia aimed at introducing new types of weapons and military technologies into international markets. The head of Rosoboronexport also emphasised that Russia has gained the trust of its partners, who are now eager to purchase "reliable and proven" weapons.
Russia found a buyer for the Su-57
Despite the official announcement, details regarding the date of signing the agreement and the identity of the buyer have not been disclosed. This has sparked numerous speculations, particularly on social media, where some experts see it as confirmation of Russia's success, while others remain sceptical, describing it as potential propaganda. The contract announcement coincided with the presentation of the Su-57E, the export version of the fighter, at the international Zhuhai Air Show in China, which is taking place from 12 to 17 November.
In 2021, Mikheyev revealed that Rosoboronexport is in discussions with five countries interested in purchasing the Su-57. Among the potential buyers mentioned were India, Algeria, Vietnam, and Turkey. As reported by the Eurasian Times, according to unconfirmed reports, it could be Algeria that signed the agreement, and such a decision would impact the regional balance of power. However, Algeria has not confirmed this information up to this point.
Russia boasts of success in the form of the first export contract for its fifth-generation fighters, but it cannot be overlooked that the Su-57 faces many challenges. The aircraft, developed by Sukhoi and produced at the KnAAZ plant, had its first flight in 2010, and only entered service 10 years later in 2020. Since then, fewer than 40 units have been produced, due to production limitations and issues related to Western sanctions.
Experts point out that the Russian invasion of Ukraine further complicated the situation and did not add additional fame to the Su-57. Its limited role in the conflict and the fear of its loss have decreased the confidence of potential clients. Additionally, analyses by Western experts suggest that the aircraft's radar cross-section (RCS) is larger than that of competing fighters, such as the F-35, undermining its edge in stealth technology.
