Russia gloats after Putin's new £37m fighter jet’s first flight

Russia has hailed the capabilities of its latest fighter jet which has taken to the skies for the first time. The Su-57D is a two-seat version of the Russian air force’s existing fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57, Moscow’s most advanced warplane.

New images have been released of the Su-57D taxiing and taking off from an unnamed airfield. Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) said the flight went as planned, according to reports. Denis Manturov, Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister, confirmed flight tests of the two-seater variant had begun.

He said: “This aircraft, developed independently by our aircraft manufacturers, will, in addition to its unique combat characteristics, also possess the capabilities of a combat trainer and a command and control aircraft.”

It is believed the “command and control” role would likely see the jet leading uncrewed loyal wingman drones in battle.

The Su-57, NATO reporting name ‘Felon’, is reportedly already involved in developing the concept of crewed and uncrewed aircraft working in tandem.

India is reportedly interested in the Su-57D and Vadim Badekha, CEO of UAC, suggested there are plans to export the jet.

“We are continuing our work on improving and expanding the capabilities of our most advanced fifth-generation aircraft complex,” he said.

“I am confident that the two-seater version of the aircraft will significantly contribute to its success in foreign markets.”

It is not clear how much the two-seat version of Su-57 will cost.

The original Su-57 is estimated to be worth between around £26 million and £37 million per jet.

Russia has struggled to gain air superiority over Ukraine despite having a huge advantage in the skies in terms of numbers and capabilities.

In 2023, UK defence intelligence revealed the Su-57 was “almost certainly” being used in the war but that they were being limited to flying over Russian territory.

Intelligence chiefs said the fighter jets were being held back as Moscow was “highly likely” prioritising avoiding reputational damage, which could harm export prospects, and the compromise of sensitive technology.