The relocation of Russia’s newest fifth-generation multirole fighters, the Su-57, to airfields in the Far East is a routine measure tied to fleet modernization, according to Hero of Russia and Major General of Aviation Sergey Lipovoy.

He explained that the transfer reflects an ongoing program to phase out aging aircraft and replace them with next-generation platforms. The timing — at the very start of the year — signals preparation for the more intensive spring and summer training cycle. Planned redeployments are underway, and flight crews are being readied for the upcoming high-activity season, he indicated.

Lipovoy also noted that the Aerospace Forces command may be stepping up pilot training ahead of the active phase of exercises traditionally held in the warmer months. At the same time, he acknowledged that other objectives could be involved, though details of such tasks are not subject to public disclosure. All preparations, he stressed, are proceeding strictly in line with an approved plan.

He cautioned against reading too much into the movement of the aircraft, emphasizing that there is nothing unusual in the redeployment that should raise concern either domestically or abroad.

Earlier, Western media outlets reported that several Su-57 fighters had been moved to the Far East. Some analysts speculated that the decision might be linked to efforts to reduce the risk of potential strikes in the zone of the special military operation.