Russian aircraft makers have flown a prototype of the two-seat version of the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter for the first time. The new aircraft, designated the Su-57D, completed its maiden test flight without incident, First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov told reporters.

Manturov said the aircraft was developed on the industry’s own initiative. Alongside its combat role, the Su-57D is intended to serve as a combat trainer and could also be used for battlefield command and control missions.

The aircraft was piloted by Hero of Russia and test pilot Sergey Bogdan. The flight forms part of the United Aircraft Corporation’s ongoing work to further develop Russia’s fifth-generation aviation platform.

UAC expects the new variant to broaden the Su-57’s capabilities and strengthen its prospects on foreign markets. The corporation’s chief executive, Vadim Badekha, said the two-seat configuration should significantly improve the aircraft’s export potential.

The Su-57 was designed as a multirole frontline aviation system. It is built to strike air, ground and naval targets at any time of day, including in difficult weather and in environments with heavy electronic interference. Thanks to its low-observable design, the aircraft can operate even when facing modern air defense systems.