'Pricey toy': Air Force reveals details of Russian Su-57

Photo: Su-57 (Getty Images)

Russian Su-57 fighter jet is a valuable asset for the Russian army. Therefore, the enemy hides it from Ukrainian air defense systems, keeping it at a safe distance, reported Air Force spokesman of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Illiaa Yevlash.

“The Russians have previously used the Su-57 aircraft, but they try to keep it at a considerable distance because it can be targeted by our air defense systems. This aircraft is quite expensive and unique for them, something they cherish. It’s a pricey and unique toy for them,” he said.

According to Yevlash, during the recent combined attack on Ukraine on April 11, the Russians launched at least 12 X-50/69 missiles, carried by the Su-57.

“These missiles are quite difficult to detect in the air, as they are similar in their tactical and technical characteristics, and it is difficult to identify them before they fall into the hands of experts,” the spokesman added.

What is known about this aircraft

The Su-57 is a Russian fifth-generation fighter jet. Its first flight took place on January 29, 2010. The timelines for serial deliveries of the aircraft to the Russian military have been repeatedly changed: they were initially planned for 2015, 2016, and later – for 2017 and 2018. Finally, on December 25, 2020, the Russian Aerospace Forces received the first serial fighter jet.

The aircraft was developed to replace the MiG-29 and Su-27 in the Russian Aerospace Forces. Initially, India was supposed to participate in the project. However, in April 2018, India withdrew from the joint FGFA project with Russia. Indian military officials concluded that the promised Russian fifth-generation fighter did not meet the stated requirements.

Shelling of Ukraine on April 11

Russian forces launched a massive shelling of Ukraine on April 11 with drones and missiles, targeting critical energy infrastructure in four regions.

In total, Russian forces used over 80 drones and missiles, including Kinzhals. The main drone strikes were concentrated in the Lviv region. Ukrainian air defense managed to shoot down 57 enemy targets.