Russian Su-57 Shown in Livery of WWII Era La-7 Combat Aircraft

Russia's Rostec has shown the Su-57 stealth fighter in the livery of the WWII era combat aircraft, the La-7, that has the distinction of shooting down Nazi Germany's first jet fighter, the Me-262.

On Victory Day, Rostec unveiled this historical livery, paying tribute to the legendary Soviet fighter pilot Ivan Kozhedub.

Ivan Kozhedub, a native of the Ukrainian SSR and a three-time Hero of the Soviet Union, achieved an astounding 62 confirmed enemy kills during his service. Notably, among those victories was the downing of the feared Me-262 jet fighter, known as the "miracle weapon" of the Nazi Air Force.

The Su-57's new livery replicates the appearance of Kozhedub's La-7, complete with the pilot's awards and eight rows of stars representing his victories against German aircraft. Oleg Yevtushenko, executive director of Rostec, emphasized the significance of honoring Soviet pilots like Kozhedub who defended against Nazi aggression, shaping the peaceful skies we enjoy today.

The La-7, renowned as one of the best fighters of WWII, boasted exceptional performance and firepower, making it a favored aircraft among pilots. It was armed with three synchronized 20 mm guns and powered by an ASh-82FN engine.