20:40 19-05-2026

Su-57D Two-Seat Fighter Aims at Exports and Drones

© A. Krivonosov

The War Zone says Russia’s two-seat Su-57D may target exports, India and S-70 Okhotnik drone control, despite possible performance tradeoffs.

Analysts at the American outlet The War Zone believe Russia’s development of the two-seat Su-57D fifth-generation fighter is linked to several objectives at once. The key factors, in their view, are the aircraft’s export potential and its possible role in controlling loyal wingman drones, including the S-70 Okhotnik.

According to the publication, adding a second crew member would make cooperation between manned aircraft and unmanned systems easier to manage.

The authors suggest that India may be among the first potential customers interested in the two-seat version. They also believe the Su-57D could eventually take over part of the role now performed by Su-30SM/M2 fighters, which are used for both air defense missions and long-range strikes against ground targets.

At the same time, The War Zone notes that adding a second seat to the cockpit would inevitably affect the aircraft’s performance. The Su-57D could lose range if its fuel capacity is reduced, while speed and maneuverability may also suffer. The changes could also influence the fighter’s radar signature, especially from the critical frontal aspect.

Earlier, the Telegram channel Fighterbomber reported that the new two-seat version of the Su-57 had carried out taxiing tests. According to the report, the trials took place on May 16.