The modifications to the Su-75 seek to increase the aircraft’s efficiency and reduce its radar visibility.
Sukhoi at the forefront of Su-75 modernization
Aircraft maker Sukhoi is investing in upgrading the Su-75, a light tactical aircraft backed by patent documents and reliable sources.
The reforms include three new variants of the aircraft: single-seater, two-seater and unmanned, according to revelations from the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC).
The Su-75’s hull redesign stands out among the significant improvements, with striking similarities to US company Lockheed Martin’s Next Generation Air Dominance ( NGAD ) project designs.
Su-75 redesign to improve performance and stealth capability
Modifications to the Su-75 seek to increase the aircraft’s efficiency and reduce its radar visibility, including changes to the fuselage sides, keels, and air intakes.
Variations of the fighter include a two-seat version with an elongated, glass-enclosed cockpit, similar to the Su-30SM fighter, and an unmanned version modeled after the single-seat.
According to reports based on patent documents, the only difference between the unmanned model and the single-seater lies in the absence of a cockpit in the former.
Su-75 maiden flight delayed
The Su-75’s maiden flight is anticipated to be delayed until 2025, with serial production planned for 2027. This postponement is possibly due to the adoption of an open architecture concept for the fighter, which has forced further redesign.
The change in the fighter architecture arises from the need to adapt to customer demands, expanding the options available to the Su-75.
In conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Rostec CEO Sergey Chemezov mentioned the improved layout of the Su-75’s internal compartments to house advanced air-to-air and air-to-surface weaponry.
Criticism and Doubts about the Su-75
Despite the advancement in Su-75 variants, questions remain about its serial production and its performance compared to fifth-generation fighters from other countries.
An anonymous source, a former National Security Council member in the George W. Bush administration, predicted limited interest in the Su-75 due to political tension between Russia and Ukraine.
The outlet 19FortyFive considers the Russian claims about the full comparability of the Su-75 with the American F-35 Lightning II fighter to be exaggerated and misleading while acknowledging the advantage of reusing components from the Su-57 in the Su-75.
The potential of the Su-75 in the international market
If the Su-75 were to go into mass production, it could offer countries a fifth-generation stealth fighter alternative, although its direct comparison to the US F-35 is disputed.
The adoption of components and development of the Su-57 into the Su-75 is pointed out as a key factor in meeting the tight project schedule, according to 19FortyFive.
The future of the Su-75 and its impact on the international aerospace industry will continue to be the subject of speculation and close observation.
Answer: According to recent reports, the Russian Su-75 fighter is in active development. The Sukhoi company and the United Aircraft Corporation are working on three new Su-75 modifications, including single-seat, two-seat and unmanned variants. Although the maiden flight date has been reported to be pushed back to 2025 and series production is expected in 2027, development continues apace.
Answer: The Su-75 has undergone several significant improvements. The hull has been redesigned to resemble Lockheed Martin’s proposed sixth-generation fighter design. The wing now features a larger second inner flaperon, and the tail section has been modified and enlarged. In addition, the modifications have reduced the effective scattering surface, thus decreasing radar visibility.
Answer: According to reports, the only distinction between the unmanned Checkmate and the single-seater with the redesigned hull is the absence of a cockpit in the former. This means that the unmanned version of the Su-75 is practically identical to the single-seat version in design and technical characteristics.
Answer: Opinions vary. Some international observers are skeptical of the viability and effectiveness of the Su-75, citing geopolitical concerns such as Russia’s intervention in Ukraine. Although it is recognized that the Su-75 could be a cost-effective alternative to the F-35, claims that it is fully comparable to the US fighter have been dismissed as exaggerated and misleading.
Answer: The use of components from the Su-57 in the Su-75 can confer several advantages. Reusing already available equipment and components can speed up the development process and keep costs at bay, which is crucial to meet the Su-75’s tight deadlines. Furthermore, it can offer operational benefits, as the Su-57 is a proven, high-performance platform.
