Russia’s Su-57 and China’s J-35-A stealth fighters have attracted significant attention at the Zhuhai Airshow. Amid reports of landing its first export order, decorated test pilot Sergei Bogdan hailed the Russian Su-57 as superior to China’s newly unveiled J-35.
‘Hero of Russia,’ Bogdan declared that the Su-57 outperforms China’s J-35 in every key aspect, asserting its technological superiority.
Russia’s Su-57 Felon made its first international appearance at the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai. However, China’s second stealth fighter, the J-35, stole the show, captivating attendees and becoming the event’s standout attraction.
The spotlight on both stealth jets also created a significant stir in the media, with both aircraft seen as strong contenders in the global export market.
However, Russian test pilot Bogdan expressed his confidence in the Su-57’s design and capabilities, suggesting it stands above its global counterparts.
Bogdan, known for his expertise and hands-on experience on the Su-57 fighter jet, said that Russia’s approach to designing combat aircraft ensures it remains a step ahead of international competitors.
He stated that Russian fighters consistently aim to outmatch rivals, pointing out that when Russia develops weapons, it strategically considers advances made by other nations, leading to refined designs with competitive advantages.
This forward-thinking approach, he believes, gives the Su-57 an edge, particularly over new entries like China’s J-35. Comparing the Su-57 with the J-35, Bogdan noted that air shows like Zhuhai reveal only limited aspects of a jet’s capabilities, often restricted to basic aerodynamic performance.
“As for the new Chinese J-35 aircraft, unfortunately, at aerospace shows and air shows, you can only see aerodynamic characteristics, in general. In terms of maneuverability, stability, and controllability, our competitors, unfortunately, do not show everything not demonstrated. But from what is shown, Russian aircraft always show a little more,” Bogdan said.
According to Bogdan, the Su-57 has undergone rigorous testing in all major performance areas, from flight dynamics and maneuverability to stability and control, underscoring its robustness as a combat-ready aircraft.
Additionally, Bogdan described the Su-57 as a well-crafted platform for future advancements, much like the legacy Su-27, which has influenced Russian fighter design for decades.
He added that the Su-57 combines the complex requirements of a fifth-generation fighter—top-tier aerodynamics, structural integrity, and versatile weaponry—making it a powerful asset in Russia’s arsenal.
Its advanced features, including internal weapons bays, long-range strike capability, and a sophisticated defensive suite, contribute to its powerful operational profile.
Export Potential Of Su-57 Felon
Bogdan also noted the Su-57’s potential for international markets and suggested that the fighter’s capabilities make it an appealing option for foreign buyers.
With advanced weapons, extended range, and a comprehensive defense system, the Su-57 is positioned as a versatile and highly capable aircraft, ready to meet the demands of modern aerial combat and future modifications.
On November 13, Russian news agency Tass reported that the state arms exporter Rosoboronexport had finalized its first contracts for the export version of the Su-57 fighter jet.
The contracts were signed during the Zhuhai Airshow in Guangdong province, with Rosoboronexport’s CEO, Alexander Mikheyev, confirming the news. However, the report did not specify which country had secured the stealth warplane.
Mikheyev said that the Su-57 is the latest addition to Russia’s impressive portfolio of military hardware and highlighted that “partners from friendly countries” are eager to procure “reliable and proven” Russian weapons.
The Sukhoi Su-57 is a twin-engine multi-role fighter jet developed by Sukhoi. It is designed for superior air superiority and precision strikes on land and maritime targets.
First flown in 2010, the aircraft integrates stealth technology, supermanoeuvrability, and supersonic cruise capabilities, making it one of the most advanced jets in its class.
Its large payload capacity and integrated avionics systems further enhance its versatility and operational effectiveness, positioning the Su-57 as a key force in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.
In parallel with these export developments, Sergey Shoigu, the Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, praised the Su-57’s performance in the ongoing special military operation in Ukraine.
According to Shoigu, the fifth-generation fighter has proven itself from the very first combat mission, further bolstering its reputation as a highly effective and reliable platform for modern warfare.
Despite Russian officials’ bold claims regarding the Su-57’s advanced capabilities, evidence of its active involvement in the ongoing conflict remains scarce.
Various reports suggest that the fifth-generation fighter jet’s role in the war has been notably limited, with only a few documented cases of its deployment—and even those missions were conducted from a standoff distance, avoiding direct engagement.
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