Despite making an impressive aerobatic display at the Airshow China 2024, the Su-57 fighter jet faced global ridicule and embarrassment due to its questionable build quality and stealth capabilities. Social media users pointed out far from hi-tech bolts and filler between panels, rendering the plane detectable to radars and negating its stealth abilities. This further adds to the long and troubled history of the prized Russian aircraft.
Sukhoi Su-57: Unveiled at Airshow China, Faces Ridicule over Stealth Capabilities
The Sukhoi Su-57, Russia's flagship fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft, made a grand appearance at the Airshow China 2024. However, its impressive aerobatic display was overshadowed by global ridicule and embarrassment over its questionable build quality and stealth capabilities.
Background
The Su-57 is a single-seat, twin-engine stealth fighter that was first unveiled in 2010. It is designed to compete with the American F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, as well as the Chinese Chengdu J-20. The aircraft features advanced avionics, a sophisticated radar system, and a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.
Embarrassment at Airshow China
During the Airshow China 2024, the Su-57 showcased its aerobatic capabilities, including tight turns and maneuvers. However, viewers soon noticed that the aircraft's panels were held together by visible bolts and filler material. This raised concerns about the aircraft's stealth capabilities, as the exposed gaps could potentially reflect radar waves and make the aircraft detectable.
Social media users quickly seized upon the opportunity to mock the Su-57's build quality, posting images and videos of the exposed bolts. The aircraft's stealth capabilities were further questioned, rendering them virtually useless.
Troubled History
The Su-57 has a long and troubled history. Production delays, technical problems, and funding issues have plagued the project for years. Despite multiple claims by Russian officials of its impending entry into service, the aircraft has yet to be officially inducted into the Russian Air Force.
Top 5 FAQs on Su-57
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