F-35 vs Russian Su-57: 5th-Gen Air War

By Kris Osborn, President, Center for Military Modernization

(Washington D.C.) Much of the F-35’s superiority over the Russian Su-57 may reside in its mission systems, long-range, high-resolution sensors and targeting, computing, weapons range and guidance systems.

Su-57 vs F-35

There are a few reasons to think that the Russian Su-57 could be a little behind the U.S. F-35, F-22 and whatever innovations might be being built into the emerging 6th-generation aircraft

Why? There are several key areas which jump out for consideration, relating to stealth configuration, hypersonics and manned-unmanned teaming.

Well obviously many details about the Su-57 are not likely to be available, perhaps apart from what gets mentioned in the Russian press.

However, a few recent articles in Russian-backed newspapers indicate the country may be behind the U.S. when it comes to manned-unmanned teaming or a “loyal wingman” capability when it comes to the F-35. 

For example, for many years now the Pentagon, Air Force and other military services have been advancing a “loyal wingman” concept with the F-35, meaning drone flight paths, sensor payload and data analysis can happen it the cockpit of a 5th-generation aircraft.

The means operational effectiveness and tactical ability is exponentially improved because drone video and data feeds do not first need to go through a ground control station before reaching the aircraft.