Russia’s Su-57 fighter jet has gained a substantial advantage over Western aircraft of the same generation through its extensive combat experience. According to Military Watch Magazine (MWM), the Russian aircraft has seen far more intensive operational use than its foreign counterparts, particularly during the fighting in Ukraine.

The publication points to major advances in the Su-57 program over recent years. Russia has significantly increased production of the fighter, paving the way for the launch of export deliveries. However, MWM identifies its battlefield record as an even more important achievement, arguing that no other fighter of its generation can match the Russian jet’s experience in actual combat.

The Su-57 has performed a wide range of missions, from engaging enemy aircraft and suppressing air defense systems to carrying out precision strikes. This extensive operational experience has given Russian engineers valuable information for refining the fighter’s design and introducing further improvements.

The role of battlefield experience in the aircraft’s development was also highlighted in September by Sergey Yarkovoy, First Vice President of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), which is part of Rostec. He confirmed that the Su-57 was undergoing further modifications based on lessons learned during real combat operations.

The fighter is designed to strike targets in the air, on the ground and at sea. It can operate both day and night, including in difficult weather conditions and environments affected by electronic interference. Its low-observable design also enables the aircraft to remain effective against modern air defense systems.