The Su-57 remains one of Russia’s key aircraft drawing close attention from foreign buyers. According to Vadim Badekha, director general of the United Aircraft Corporation, or OAK, which is part of Rostec, international interest in the fifth-generation fighter through military-technical cooperation remains exceptionally strong.

In an interview with TASS, Badekha said the Su-57 is already being used in real combat conditions and has demonstrated an advantage over modern foreign systems, both airborne and ground-based. He noted that potential customers abroad are seeing these results.

This, he said, has driven very serious — even explosive — demand for the aircraft on the international market under military-technical cooperation channels. The first deliveries to foreign customers have already been completed, firm contracts are in place, and other agreements are at the signing stage. Several major clients are working with OAK on the aircraft, Badekha added.

The OAK chief also stressed that the Su-57 has retained the qualities traditionally valued by buyers of Russian aviation equipment: strong potential for further development, reliability and an acceptable price.

In the coming years, the Su-57 is expected to receive a new engine known as «izdeliye 177." Badekha clarified that the aircraft already fully meets the requirements for fifth-generation fighters, and that the new engine is seen not as a prerequisite for that status, but as a way to expand the fighter’s capabilities.

The engine is currently undergoing tests. Its first flight has already taken place and was completed successfully. Badekha said replacing the power unit will not require modifications to the aircraft itself.

Among Russian fighters, the Su-57 and Su-35 are currently seeing the strongest demand on the foreign market. Badekha recalled that the Su-35 belongs to the 4++ generation and is actively used, including during the special military operation.