Russia flies new Su-57D twin-seat stealth fighter designed to command Okhotnik combat drones
By
Jérôme Brahy
An everything bagel for the brain. Substantive, layered, well-seasoned.
Summary
Russia has flown the new Su-57D twin-seat stealth fighter for the first time, as confirmed by United Aircraft Corporation on May 19, 2026. Unlike standard Su-57 variants, the Su-57D is designed as an airborne command platform to control future S-70 Okhotnik combat drones and coordinate complex strike operations. The program signals Russia's push toward manned-unmanned teaming and distributed air warfare, where stealth aircraft increasingly function as battlefield network managers rather than only missile shooters. The Su-57D adds a second crew member dedicated to drone control and mission coordination.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledUnited Aircraft Corporation confirmed on May 19, 2026, that the aircraft is being developed not just as a fighter, but as an airborne command platform designed to control future S-70 Okhotnik combat drones and coordinate complex strike operations.
The program signals Russia's push toward manned-unmanned teaming and distributed air warfare, where stealth aircraft increasingly function as battlefield network managers rather than only missile shooters.
The Su-57D adds a second crew member dedicated to drone control and mission coordination.
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