Russia claims to have signed its first contracts for the export version of its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet, as announced by Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev at the Air Show China in Zhuhai on November 13, 2024. However, the specific identity of the buyer has not been disclosed, leading to speculation about potential customers.

The contracts were revealed during the China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, marking the Su-57's international debut. Mikheyev emphasized the importance of military-technical cooperation and expressed optimism about the economic benefits of these export contracts for Russia's defense industry.


The Su-57 is designed for multirole operations, capable of engaging air, ground, and naval targets. It features advanced stealth technology, supermaneuverability, and integrated avionics systems. The aircraft is also equipped with an AI system that assists pilots in various tasks.

Although no buyer has been officially named, there is speculation surrounding countries such as Algeria, India, Malaysia, and Turkey as potential customers. Algeria is particularly noted as a likely candidate due to rumored operational interest in the Su-57. However, experts suggest that countries like China are unlikely to purchase the aircraft given their own advancements in fifth-generation fighter technology.

The signing of these contracts is part of Russia's broader strategy to enhance its presence in international arms markets and secure foreign partnerships. This move could help sustain and develop Russia's military-industrial complex amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The armament of the Su-57 is designed to be as futuristic as the aircraft itself. It is capable of carrying a variety of missiles and bombs, as well as weapon systems that include next-generation surface-to-air missile complexes and guided munitions for fighter and strike missions.

The weapons management system provides the Su-57 with the ability to respond quickly and precisely to threats in a dynamically changing combat environment. The most impressive feature of these weapon systems is their ability to integrate into network-centric operations, enabling tactical coordination with other military platforms.

Russia has made significant strides in securing export contracts for the Su-57 fighter jet, the lack of clarity regarding the buyer raises questions about future sales and international interest in this advanced military aircraft.