Employees at the Sukhoi Design Bureau, part of PJSC UAC under Rostec, are integrating drone capabilities into the arsenal of the fifth generation Su-57 fighter. The announcement came as the program for the Su-57 continues to evolve, expanding its range of armament options to include unmanned systems. The evolving global context creates new requirements for the bureau, which has a track record of delivering aircraft with cutting-edge features after more than eight decades of operation. In remarks tied to ongoing modernization efforts, the bureau’s leadership highlighted how drones will complement manned combat platforms to enhance overall capability and survivability in modern missions.
The head of Rostec noted that the Su-57 program is advancing, with an emphasis on broadening weapon systems, including drones. He pointed to the bureau’s historical achievement of developing more than 100 aircraft types over its long history, many of which feature state-of-the-art performance. The message underscored the role of drones in expanding the thematic scope of fifth-generation aviation and in addressing fresh strategic challenges on the contemporary battlefield. This update aligns with the organization’s long-standing emphasis on resilience, flexibility, and forward-looking design solutions, demonstrated across multiple generations of aircraft. Attribution: Rostec/Interfax-TASS coverage.
Officials further stated that the Sukhoi Design Bureau continues to modernize existing aviation systems that have proven effective in combat scenarios. The aim is to keep the country’s air power at the forefront through iterative improvements, reliability enhancements, and the integration of new technologies that can operate within complex missions. The current focus extends to ensuring that the entire family of Sukhoi platforms remains interoperable and capable across varied theaters of operation. Attribution: Rostec communications.
The bureau has framed its strategy around what it calls the future of Russian aviation, highlighting three major projects: the heavy Okhotnik drone, the Checkmate single-engine aircraft, and a heavy vertical take-off and landing UAV. These programs illustrate a commitment to expanding autonomous and remotely piloted capabilities as components of a broader, modernized air fleet. The emphasis is on expanding strategic options for air power while maintaining robust performance in contested environments. Attribution: Rostec program briefings.
Earlier discussions referenced by international media described comparisons between Russian and Western fighters, with analyses noting the Su-57’s performance in relation to contemporary platforms. The ongoing dialogue around these aircraft underscores the importance of continued development, testing, and evaluation to sustain competitive advantages in high-end aviation. Attribution: global defense reporting.
In addition, Rostec leadership has highlighted the global interest in Russian aviation technologies, noting that demand and attention extend beyond regional markets. The public messaging focuses on showcasing the capabilities of current and future generations of Russian aircraft, reinforcing the perception of a dynamic, export-oriented aerospace sector. Attribution: Rostec communications.