The Russian Su-57 gets its first customer from this Country

The Russian-made Sukhoi Su-57, a fifth-generation multi-role stealth fighter, is attracting growing international interest following its impressive performances at airshows worldwide.

Developed under Russia’s PAK FA program launched in 1999 to rival American fighters like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, the Su-57 measures approximately 20.4 meters in length with a wingspan of 14.1 meters. It boasts a top speed of Mach 2 and an operational range of around 3,500 kilometers.

Equipped with advanced avionics, including an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and an infrared search and track (IRST) system, the Su-57 carries up to 12 air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons internally, preserving its stealth profile.

Its arsenal includes precision-guided munitions such as the Kh-69 stealth cruise missile, the Grom glide bomb, and the R-77EM long-range air-to-air missile. Russian claims emphasize the use of radar-absorbent materials to enhance stealth, though critics note exposed engine nozzles and certain airframe features may increase radar detectability compared to Western fifth-generation jets.

Potential Entry into the Export Market

At the MIL-EX 2025 arms exhibition in Minsk, Belarus, Russia’s Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation announced a significant milestone for the Su-57 program, signaling its imminent entry into the global arms market.

While Russia has not officially disclosed the identity of its first foreign Su-57 buyer, speculation strongly points to Algeria. This announcement, covered by the Russian state news agency TASS on May 22, 2025, underscores Russia’s intent to challenge Western dominance in the fifth-generation fighter market, particularly against American platforms like the F-35 and F-22.

Algeria: A Key Partner and Potential First Foreign Operator

Indications of Algeria’s role emerged as early as 2024, when Russian officials confirmed signing an export contract for the Su-57 without naming the customer. Algeria has a longstanding history of acquiring Russian military equipment, including Su-30 fighter jets, S-300 air defense systems, T-90 tanks, and F-100J missile systems.

The training of Algerian pilots on Su-57-compatible platforms suggests a deliberate move to integrate the aircraft into its air force, potentially replacing its aging Soviet-era fleet.

Algeria’s strategic interest in the Su-57 stems from its position as a major military power in North Africa, where it faces ongoing security challenges such as border tensions with Morocco and emerging regional air threats. The Su-57 acquisition could thus enhance Algeria’s deterrence capability and reshape regional power dynamics.

Comparing Algeria’s Su-57 to Morocco’s Western-Supplied Arsenal

Morocco’s current arsenal, heavily supported by French military hardware, provides it with modern capabilities. However, Algeria’s Su-57 acquisition could shift the balance. While the Su-57 features advanced radar systems and long-range weaponry, it lags behind Western fighters like the F-35 in data integration, stealth optimization, and internal weapons capacity. The Su-57’s radar cross-section is also larger, making it more detectable on radar.

Financially, the Su-57 is estimated to cost between $40 and $50 million per unit, compared to approximately $150 million for the F-35. Yet, political and export restrictions limit access to the F-35, whereas Algeria benefits from unrestricted Russian support. Moreover, the Su-57’s compatibility with Algeria’s existing Russian-origin military systems simplifies logistics, training, and maintenance, aligning well with Algeria’s traditional defense partnerships dating back to the Soviet era.

While the F-35 offers superior stealth and interoperability with Western allies, Algeria’s decision to pursue the Su-57 reflects a strategic continuity favoring Russian technology and influence in the region.

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