The Su-57 Felon was developed under Russia's PAK FA program beginning in the 2000s. Unlike the F-35's single-engine configuration, the Su-57 uses twin engines for greater thrust and redundancy. Russian designers prioritized supermaneuverability, sustained supersonic flight, and weapons versatility over extreme radar stealth.
According to Antonio Di Trapani: "In contrast to the F-35, the Su-57 features a twin-engine configuration, providing higher thrust, redundancy, and enhanced kinematic performance. Russian designers prioritized supermaneuverability, sustained supersonic flight, and weapons versatility over the extreme radar stealth of Western counterparts."
By 2025, hundreds of F-35 units have been delivered globally across U.S., NATO, and allied forces. The jet has seen operational deployment in multiple conflicts. In comparison, fewer than 35 Su-57s are estimated to be in service due to production challenges and economic pressures facing Russia.
This difference in fleet size highlights contrasting strategic approaches: mass production of versatile multirole fighters by the U.S., versus Russia’s focus on specialized platforms produced in smaller numbers.
Physically, the Su-57 is larger with a heavier maximum takeoff weight (81,600 lb) compared to the F-35 (70,100 lb). The Russian jet’s two AL-41F1 engines allow it to reach higher speeds (Mach 2.1) than the F-35 (Mach 1.6) and provide longer range. However, these choices impact its radar signature; while effective for high-speed interception and long-range engagements, they make it less stealthy than its American counterpart.
Stealth remains a core advantage for the F-35 due to all-aspect radar cross-section reduction using specialized shaping and coatings. The Su-57 emphasizes frontal-aspect stealth but remains more visible from other angles because of its size and external features.
Antonio Di Trapani stated: "This compromise is intentional: Russia prioritized aerodynamic agility and weapons versatility over extreme stealth."
Sensor systems also differ between these jets. The F-35 integrates multiple sensors into one interface with advanced data fusion capabilities that enable seamless sharing with other assets—making it central to network-centric warfare. The Su-57 employs powerful radars like N036 Belka AESA distributed across its fuselage along with an infrared search-and-track system but is believed to offer less mature data fusion.
When it comes to armament capacity:
– The F‑35 can carry about 5,700 lb of internal ordnance in stealth mode or exceed 18,000 lb when using external pylons.
– The Su‑57 has large internal bays allowing up to approximately 8,000 lb internally.
– Russia equips its fighters with long-range missiles such as R‑37M capable of targeting support assets at distances up to 400 kilometers.
– Both aircraft can deploy precision-guided munitions for air-to-ground missions; however, their loadouts reflect differing doctrines—stealth penetration for the F‑35 versus flexibility for long-range interception by the Su‑57.
Operational experience further distinguishes these fighters. By early 2025:
– The F‑35 is active within eighteen nations’ air forces including participation in multinational exercises like Spartan Lightning (Germany), Cope Thunder (Philippines), and Talisman Sabre (Australia).
– Israeli F‑35I Adir jets have reportedly conducted strikes against Iranian targets.
– U.S. deployments include deterrence missions near Ukraine amid ongoing conflict [see https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/03/14/fighter-jets-head-to-europe-as-us-expands-deterrence-missions/].
– Its operational maturity is supported by global logistics networks enabling rapid dispersal under Agile Combat Employment concepts [see https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3528839/agile-combat-employment-concept-of-operation-released-by-air-force-chief-of-staf/].
Conversely:
– As of early 2025 there are only about 25–30 active Su‑57s; initial deployments were primarily for testing purposes including limited operations in Syria.
– Production delays are attributed largely to sanctions restricting access to advanced avionics [see https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/russia-faces-sanctions-pressure-over-su-57-fighter-production-delays-sources-say/].
– Recent reports suggest increased use over Ukraine where they perform high-value strike missions or support conventional aircraft [see https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/russias-su-57-stealth-fighters-now-being-used-in-combat-over-ukraine].
Looking ahead:
– Ongoing upgrades for both platforms will shape their future roles; Block 4 enhancements will expand weapons compatibility on the F‑35 while improving electronic warfare capabilities.
– For Russia’s Su‑57 much depends on full integration of new engines (“Product 30”) and overcoming supply chain hurdles before meaningful growth can occur.
As it stands now in 2025: “For now,” writes Antonio Di Trapani,“the F‑35’s combination of stealth, advanced sensors,and proven global deployment makes it one of the most influential aircraft worldwide while the Su‑57 remains a potent but limited-presence adversary.”
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