Russia Su-57D Twin-seat Fighter Jet Commences Test Flights

Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has begun flight tests of the Su-57D, a two-seat, multirole fifth-generation stealth fighter.

A prototype of the twin-seater Su-57D marked its first flight today. The aircraft was flown by Sukhoi Design Bureau Chief Pilot Sergei Bogdan. The takeoff proceeded as planned, in accordance with the flight mission requirements, an official statement said.

"Flight tests have begun on the prototype of the Su-57 fifth-generation two-seat fighter. This aircraft, developed proactively by our aircraft manufacturers, will boast unique combat capabilities, as well as the capabilities of a combat trainer and combat control aircraft," noted First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Denis Manturov.

"The two-seat version of the Su-57, developed by specialists at the Sukhoi Design Bureau, can be used not only for pilot training but also for organizing and managing combat operations of a joint group of manned and unmanned aircraft, creating a unified information and control space," Rostec, the parent of UAC said in a statement.

"We continue to work on improving and expanding the functionality of our most advanced fifth-generation aircraft system. I am confident that the two-seat version of the aircraft will significantly contribute to its success in international markets," said UAC CEO Vadim Badekha.

The Su-57 multirole frontline aviation system is designed to perform a wide range of combat missions. It is capable of engaging air, ground, and sea targets. The aircraft can be used around the clock, including in adverse weather conditions and challenging jamming environments. Its low observability allows it to destroy targets even against modern air defense system.

The twin-seat Su-57D  could be of interest to India:

India operates the twin-seat Su-30MKI could be interested in the Su-57D as the aircraft is in tune with the Indian Air Force’s philosophy of having two pilots, one focused on flying and another on combat for its large front-line combat aircraft.

The Su-57D’s stealth features will enable it to strike deep into enemy territory with missiles mounted in its internal weapons bay.