In 2021, a new stealth multi-role fighter was revealed in Russia from Sukhoi Design Bureau, although the whole program was secret. The designation of the aircraft is still unknown, but it's referred to as Checkmate. The fighter is smaller than the Su-57, and externally it's similar to the American F-35A. The tests of the first prototype will begin soon. It may take up to 10 years to be introduced into the Russian Air Force, as it's still not ready to enter production state. If everything goes as planned, it may replace the MiG-29 and be offered to export customers.
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Everything you need to know about the new stealth Chinese fighter
It is known that Russia is a level back in aircraft technology, that's why the upcoming fighter will be fourth and not fifth generation. It is highlighted that the cost of production, operation and maintenance will be impressively low. It's being said that it may cost 1/3 of the F-35.
The aircraft had reduced radar cross-section and internal weapon bays. It also features a modern Active Electronically Scanner Array radar, that can display up to 6 targets at the same time.
The fighter can carry weapons internally or externally, with a maximum weight of 400kg. It has air-to-air and ground strike capabilities. Some of its available weapons are the medium-range air-to-air missiles RVV-SD, the small range air-to-air RVV-MD, the Kh-38MLE laser-guided air-to-air missiles and more.
In air superiority missions, the fighter can carry up to 5 air-to-air missiles. The producers stated that it can reach a top speed of Mach 1.8 (2,222kmh) with a range of 2,800km. Let's see how it will perform in action!
