SOURCE: TASS
In a significant development for international military aviation, Russia’s state arms export agency, Rosoboronexport, has officially secured its initial contracts for the export variant of the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet, as announced by Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev during a press briefing at the prestigious Airshow China event in Zhuhai on Wednesday.
“The system of military-technical cooperation is designed to introduce cutting-edge armaments and military hardware into the global market. We have already signed the first contracts for the Su-57,” Mikheyev stated, emphasizing the substantial interest shown in the fighter jet, which made its global debut on the very first day of the international airshow held in China.
Additionally, the Rosoboronexport chief elaborated on the anticipated impact and significance of showcasing Russian military technology at Airshow China in Zhuhai.
“The economic effect is considerable, as we maintain our presence in the global market, with our partners from allied nations expressing a strong desire to procure Russian military equipment that is known for its reliability and proven performance. This forms a critical base for supporting our industry through export orders, enabling us to evolve and innovate further, producing next-generation products for the upcoming 10-15 years,” Mikheyev explained.
Previously, Sergey Chemezov, CEO of Russia’s state technology corporation, Rostec, emphasized that the Su-57 stands as the sole fifth-generation aircraft worldwide that has convincingly exhibited its outstanding performance capabilities across diverse combat scenarios. The fighter jet is renowned for its remarkable survivability, attributed to its low radar signature combined with sophisticated onboard defensive systems.
Rostec underscored that the Su-57E export variation is the centerpiece of Russia’s display at Airshow China, highlighting its capability to utilize advanced precision armaments along with its stealthy radar profile, making it a desirable asset for potential buyers.
The Sukhoi Su-57 (NATO reporting name: Felon) is a state-of-the-art Russian-made multirole fighter, precisely engineered to target air, ground, and naval threats. The Su-57 integrates stealth features through the substantial incorporation of composite materials and is capable of achieving supersonic cruising speeds. Furthermore, it is outfitted with state-of-the-art electronic systems, prominently including a formidable onboard computer known as the electronic second pilot, and an innovative radar system that is integrated throughout its airframe, along with internally housed armaments.
The cutting-edge AI system of the Su-57 assists pilots by automating certain flight operations and optimizing the preparation of its weaponry for deployment, enhancing overall operational effectiveness.
At Airshow China, the Su-57 export model is currently showcased near an airfield, providing attendees with the opportunity to capture photographs of the aircraft and gain insights into its advanced operational capabilities.
What are the potential benefits for countries considering the purchase of the Su-57 fighter jet from Rosoboronexport?
**Interview with Alexander Mikheyev, CEO of Rosoboronexport**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Mikheyev. Congratulations on securing initial contracts for the export variant of the Su-57 fighter jet. Can you share with us the significance of this achievement for Russia’s military aviation sector?
**Mikheyev:** Thank you for having me. Securing these contracts marks a pivotal moment for our military aviation industry. The Su-57 is a state-of-the-art fifth-generation fighter, and its successful export signifies our commitment to enhancing military-technical cooperation across the globe. This is not just an achievement for Rosoboronexport, but it also reinforces Russia’s position in the international arms market.
**Editor:** During your announcement at Airshow China, you mentioned substantial interest in the Su-57. What do you attribute this level of interest to?
**Mikheyev:** The Su-57 combines advanced technology, performance, and reliability in a way that competitors have not matched. Our potential partners recognize the importance of having cutting-edge capabilities to ensure national security. The interest showcased at Airshow China is a testament to this demand, and we expect to see further inquiries coming from various countries.
**Editor:** You spoke about the economic effects of maintaining a competitive presence in the global market. How do you see this impacting Russia’s defense industry in the coming years?
**Mikheyev:** The economic implications are significant. By securing export orders, we not only support our current projects but also lay a foundation for future innovations. We are committed to evolving our offerings and producing next-generation products for at least the next 10-15 years. This sustained interest in Russian military technology ensures that we remain at the forefront of global military advancements.
**Editor:** Lastly, what role do you see international events like Airshow China playing in facilitating military partnerships?
**Mikheyev:** Events like Airshow China are crucial for fostering relationships and showcasing military innovations. They provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration, allowing us to present our capabilities directly to potential partners. This face-to-face interaction helps build trust and understanding, which are essential for long-term military-technical cooperation.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mr. Mikheyev, for your insights. We look forward to seeing how the Su-57 and other Russian military technologies develop in the international arena.
**Mikheyev:** Thank you for having me. We’re excited about the future and the opportunities ahead.
