Russian Su-57 Hit By Drone – How Vulnerable is the Jet?

By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow

On June 8, 2024, the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR) claimed a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. For the first time, a Su-57 fighter known as the ‘Felon’, Russia’s most advanced combat aircraft, was reportedly struck.

The GUR released satellite imagery depicting a Su-57 Felon fighter jet at the Akhtubinsk airbase in the Astrakhan region, 589 kilometers from the frontline. The images, taken on June 7 and June 8, show visible damage to the aircraft, suggesting it was hit by a drone strike. The extent of the damage remains unclear, but the incident represents the first known instance of the Su-57 being damaged or potentially destroyed as a result of the conflict.

According to a CNN report, the satellite images indicate significant changes between the two dates. On June 7, the Su-57 appeared intact. By June 8, there were visible signs of an explosion and fire damage near the aircraft. The Su-57, positioned under a shelter framework without any covering, displayed large white blotches on its upper fuselage, indicative of potential shrapnel damage from the blast.

A notable blotch and small crater on the tarmac adjacent to the Su-57 suggest the proximity of the strike. Another impact area, visible above and to the right, was partially discolored even before the strike, complicating the assessment. However, the proximity of the blast would likely have caused significant shrapnel damage, even if the aircraft itself remained structurally intact.

The Su-57 Felon, a supersonic, twin-engine, fifth-generation stealth fighter, represents Russia’s attempt to rival Western stealth jets such as the US Air Force’s F-22 Raptor. Designed by Sukhoi, the Su-57 is equipped with advanced avionics and stealth features, marking a significant advancement in Russian military aviation technology. Initiated in 2002, the Su-57 program has faced numerous delays and technical challenges. A notable setback occurred in 2019 when an Su-57 crashed during a test flight. Despite these issues, the Russian military received its first Su-57 in 2020, with reports from the state-run TASS news agency indicating that the jet had been “tested” in combat conditions in Syria as early as 2018.

The Su-57 has been deployed sparingly in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Ukrainian sources claim that the Su-57 has the capability to launch Kh-59 and Kh-69 cruise missiles from within Russian airspace, avoiding direct engagement over Ukrainian territory. This cautious approach likely aims to mitigate the risk of losing such a high-value asset and exposing sensitive technology to adversaries.