The Sukhoi Su-57, also known as Felon, is Russia’s first stealth fighter. It was developed under the PAK FA program and flew for the first time on January 29, 2010. It officially joined the Russian Aerospace Forces in December 2020.
Many wonder: how many Su-57 does Russia have? The answer depends on what we consider as produced, delivered, or operational. By December 2023, 32 airframes were built, including 10 prototypes for testing.
By late 2024, the Su-57 inventory was near 40, according to some estimates. In April 2025, it was reported that 44 Su-57s were in service.
This number shows a quick increase from a small start. In 2022, only a few Su-57s were available. But in 2023, more were added. Analysts look at where these jets are stationed to determine their numbers in Russian Air Force units.
The program aims to replace older jets like the MiG-29 and Su-27. Sanctions and supply chains affect production, mainly in avionics and microelectronics. Upgrades like the Su-57M and Su-57M1, along with the AL-51F-1 engine, show a focus on quality over quantity.
A modernized Su-57 flew on October 21, 2022. It was piloted by Sergey Bogdan. This shows progress and supports forecasts for the Su-57 fleet size in Russia for the next decade.
The question of how many Su-57 Russia has is key to assessing their military strength. The Su-57 inventory is small but growing. The number of Su-57s in Russian Air Force service will depend on production and upgrades.
Current Su-57 Fleet Size and Deliveries to Date
Russia’s Su-57 program has moved from prototypes to serial production. This change has reshaped the Su-57 fleet size that experts watch closely. The numbers vary, so we’ve broken them down to show the Russia Su-57 inventory accurately.
Verified Totals: Prototypes, Produced Aircraft, and Active Inventory
By December 2023, 32 Su-57 airframes were built. This includes 10 T-50/Su-57 prototypes for testing. The rest were production jets, delivered to the Aerospace Forces in batches.
Experts disagree on what to count. Prototypes are seen as built, but only production jets are used for flying. By early 2025, about 42 Su-57s are expected to be in service.
Production Milestones: 2019 Start, 2020 Induction, and Yearly Additions
Serial production started in July 2019. The first accepted Su-57 joined the force in December 2020. In 2022, six Su-57s were delivered, with output increasing in 2023 and 2024.
These steps explain the Su-57 fleet size Russia analysts track. They help match annual numbers across defense databases.
Where Su-57s Are Based: Akhtubinsk Test Center and Frontline Units
The 929th State Flight Test Centre at Akhtubinsk is key for early testing. As more jets were delivered, they moved to frontline units. A squadron was formed near Komsomolsk-on-Amur in late 2022.
This pattern shows the difference between test and operational jets. It’s important for the Su-57 total count in Russia.
Reconciling Sources: End‑2024 Counts and April 2025 Updates
Defense yearbooks and trackers list different numbers. End-2024 estimates show 42 operational jets. By April 2025, this number increased to 44.
When we separate prototypes, deliveries, and active service, the numbers make sense. Russia’s Su-57 inventory is growing, reaching the mid-40s by spring 2025.
| Metric | Through Dec 2023 | End‑2024 Estimate | April 2025 Update | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Airframes Built (Incl. Prototypes) | 32 | ≈ 40+ (ongoing production) | ≈ mid‑40s | Includes 10 T‑50/Su‑57 prototypes |
| Deliveries to VKS (Production Jets) | ≥ 22 | ≈ 42 | ≈ 44 | Acceptance dates drive reporting cutoffs |
| Operational Inventory | Growing | ≈ 42 | ≈ 44 | Reflects Russia Su-57 inventory in service |
| Annual Additions | 6 by end‑2022; 12 in 2023 | Rising in 2024 | Continuing deliveries | Tracks Su-57 fleet size Russia ramp‑up |
How Many Su-57 Does Russia Have
Experts track Su-57 numbers by looking at factory output and deliveries. They use public records to find out how many Su-57 Russia has. It’s important to know if a source talks about the total number of Su-57 in Russia, the number in the Russian Air Force, or the total including non-combat assets.
As of Late 2024: Estimates Around 42 in Russia’s Su-57 Inventory
By late 2024, estimates said Russia had about 42 Su-57 aircraft. This number comes from deliveries starting in 2019 and 2020. It matches the Su-57 total numbers Russia reported by many defense trackers.
This number shows how many Su-57 Russia has in real terms. It focuses on jets at Akhtubinsk and frontline units, not all built.
April 2025 Update: Reports Indicating 44 Total Su-57 in Service
In April 2025, reports said Russia had 44 Su-57 aircraft in service. This increase shows two more deliveries early in the year. It’s used by those tracking Su-57 in the Russian Air Force.
This small increase shows the Su-57 total count in Russia is going up. It happens as production stabilizes and more aircraft join squadrons.
Context: 10 Prototypes Included in Overall Number Built by Dec 2023 (32 Total Built Then)
By December 2023, 32 Su-57 had been built, including 10 prototypes. These prototypes helped test and develop tactics. But they are not as strong as frontline combat aircraft.
This difference helps explain Su-57 numbers in Russia. It shows the difference between all built aircraft and those ready for daily tasks.
What “Delivered” vs. “Produced” vs. “Operational” Means for Fleet Counts
- Produced: Airframes made at KnAAZ, including prototypes and serial jets; informs the Su-57 total count Russia.
- Delivered: Aircraft given to VKS units and test centers; the figure most readers use when asking how many su-57 does Russia have.
- Operational: Jets assigned to active units, ready for missions or training; the number of Su-57 in Russian Air Force service can be lower than deliveries due to trials or maintenance.
Using these terms consistently helps keep Su-57 numbers clear across sources. It explains why counts differ between factory output, unit handovers, and combat-ready fleets.
Production Plans, Orders, and Ramp-Up Through 2027
Russia plans to make more fifth-generation fighter jets. They have a multi-year order and will increase production slowly. This will help them meet their goals for Su-57 fighter jets by 2027.
The 76-Aircraft Contract by 2028 and Progress Toward Fulfillment
Vladimir Putin supported a plan to buy 76 aircraft by 2028. The price was cut by about 20 percent. The Ministry of Defense agreed to this deal on June 27, 2019.
This deal sets a goal for Su-57 fighter jets in Russia. It also guides the delivery of these jets to the military.
Annual Output Trends: 6 in 2022, 12 in 2023, Sharp Rise in 2024
At first, production was slow. But by the end of 2022, six jets were ready. In 2023, 12 more were delivered, showing a steady pace.
Experts say 2024 will see a big increase in production. Some predict up to 20 jets for the year. Even though the target was not fully met, production in 2024 was higher than in 2023.
New Production Line Effects and 2024–2025 Targets
A new production line started in 2022. It’s at KnAAZ in Komsomolsk-on-Amur. This line will help make more jets faster and better.
With this new line, Russia expects to make more Su-57 fighter jets. This will help the military plan better for the future.
Factors Influencing Output: Sanctions, Avionics Supply, Engine Maturation
Sanctions have made it hard to get Western avionics and microelectronics. This has led to redesigns and using local parts. These changes can slow down the Su-57 jet’s development.
The AL-41F1 engine powers the jets now. But the AL-51F-1 engine is being developed for the future. Upgrades to the airframe and electronics are also happening. These steps will affect how many Su-57 jets are made and when.
| Year | Reported Output/Deliveries | Key Drivers | Impact on Russia Su-57 Inventory |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 6 delivered | Post-crash recovery; test completion; early serial line tuning | Modest rise in Su-57 stock Russia; small but stable baseline |
| 2023 | 12 delivered | Line stabilization at KnAAZ; improved supplier cadence | Faster growth in Su-57 fleet size Russia with clearer unit planning |
| 2024 | More than 2023; below an interim high target | Aggressive ramp; sanctions workarounds; avionics sourcing adjustments | Continued expansion of Su-57 total numbers Russia despite friction |
| 2025 (Targeted) | High-teens to ~20 possible, contingent on suppliers | New line maturity; phased engine and electronics upgrades | Stronger Russia Su-57 inventory trajectory toward the 76 ceiling |
| Through 2027 | Cumulative addition of ~32 more aircraft anticipated | Contract pacing; funding stability; export de-prioritization | Milestone alignment for Su-57 stock Russia near contracted totals |
Capabilities and Variants Shaping the Su-57 Fleet
The Su-57’s design affects how many planes are ready for battle at any time. It also impacts how quickly new versions join the fleet. These factors influence the number of Su-57s in the Russian Air Force, as reported by various sources.
Core Features: Stealth, Supermaneuverability, Supercruise, Integrated Avionics
The Su-57 uses stealth technology to reduce its visibility. It has internal bays and radar-absorbent materials to lower its signature. The plane’s design allows for tight control at high speeds and supports large payloads.
It can reach speeds close to Mach 2 without using afterburners. The Su-57 has an advanced sensor system that tracks air, ground, and sea targets. These features make the Su-57’s capabilities as important as its quantity.
Upgrades in the Pipeline: Su-57M/Su-57M1 Electronics, AL-51F-1 Engines, AI Aids
The Megapolis program is upgrading the Su-57 to Su-57M and Su-57M1. These upgrades include better mission systems and more reliable components. The plane also has a helmet-mounted sight and an AI co-pilot for easier target tracking.
The AL-51F-1 engine aims to reduce noise and heat, increase range, and improve throttle response. The first Su-57M flew on October 21, 2022. The Su-57M1 was unveiled in May 2025. These upgrades will help increase the Su-57’s readiness in the future.
Operational Implications for the Number of Su-57 in Russian Air Force Service
The new avionics and engines will reduce downtime and increase sortie rates. This means more planes will be ready for action. The conversion of pilots and the setup of squadrons will determine how quickly these planes can be used in combat.
Test and training fleets are using planes for trials and training. This affects the number of Su-57s available for combat. Even with more planes being built, the actual number ready for action will depend on these factors.
Export Outlook and How It Could Impact Russia’s Su-57 Stock
The Su-57E has been offered for export, with Algeria as a possible buyer. Exporting planes could use up production slots, slowing the number of planes available for the Russian Air Force.
Over time, selling planes abroad could lower costs and help suppliers. But for now, the timing of exports will affect the number of Su-57s in the Russian Air Force.
| Feature/Factor | Current Status | Effect on Readiness | Implication for Russia Su-57 Inventory |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stealth & Internal Bays | Operational on baseline jets | Enhances survivability in contested airspace | Raises value per airframe, moderating required fleet size |
| Supercruise Performance | Reported near Mach 2 without afterburner | Improves time-to-target and persistence | Boosts practical output from existing number of Su-57 in Russian Air Force |
| Integrated Avionics Suite | Active phased-array radar with sensor fusion | Reduces pilot workload; better target tracks | Supports higher mission success from the Su-57 quantity in Russia |
| AL-51F-1 Engines | Introducing on Su-57M/M1 variants | Lower signatures; longer range; better response | Increases sustainable Su-57 total count Russia can keep mission-capable |
| AI Co‑Pilot Aid | Assists flight and target tasks | Shortens training cycles; smoother conversions | Speeds growth in deployable Russia Su-57 inventory |
| Test & Training Allocation | Ongoing at Akhtubinsk and centers | Reduces frontline availability | Creates delta between delivered and combat-ready totals |
| Export Campaign (Su-57E) | Prospects active; no deliveries by March 2025 | Could compete with near-term domestic slots | May slow short-term fielding while aiding long-term scale |
Conclusion
The most reliable sources say Russia has about 42 Su-57s by late 2024 and 44 by April 2025. This growth comes from starting with six in 2022 and adding 12 in 2023. It’s moving towards the goal of 76 aircraft by 2028.
Questions about how many Su-57s Russia has are answered by these numbers. They show a careful increase as production learns and grows.
Counts vary because of what’s built, delivered, and ready to fly. By December 2023, 32 airframes were made, including 10 prototypes. Deliveries picked up pace as the production line improved in 2024-2025.
Testing at Akhtubinsk and moving into frontline units show the Su-57 is becoming a regular part of the VKS. This is how Russia’s Su-57 stock is shaping up for advanced missions.
Sanctions and issues with parts and engines are slowing things down. But, the AL-51F-1 engines and Su-57M/Su-57M1 avionics are improving range and reliability. The addition of AI and better engines will affect how often the Su-57 can fly and how well it can be maintained.
Export interest, like with Algeria, is slow but there are no deliveries yet. In short, Russia’s Su-57 numbers are growing but not yet at full strength. The main things now are how many planes are made each year, how the engines and avionics work out, and if the fleet can become a strong force.
FAQ
How Many Su-57 Does Russia Have Right Now?
By late 2024, Russia had about 42 Su-57 fighter jets. By April 2025, this number grew to 44. These jets were part of the Russian Aerospace Forces and ready for use.
What Are the Verified Totals Built Versus In Service?
By December 2023, 32 Su-57s were built, including 10 prototypes. Production picked up in 2023-2024. By end-2024, about 42 jets were in service, and by April 2025, this number reached 44. The prototypes were for testing, not for frontline use.
Where Are Russia’s Su-57s Based?
The main test center is the 929th State Flight Test Centre at Akhtubinsk. Frontline units started forming near Komsomolsk-on-Amur in late 2022. More jets were sent to VKS regiments as deliveries increased.
How Many Su-57 Does Russia Have According to April 2025 Estimates?
April 2025 estimates say Russia has about 42 Su-57s. This matches the production and delivery pace into frontline and test units.
What Is Russia’s Order Book and Target by 2028?
A state contract signed in June 2019 aims for 76 Su-57s by 2028. World Air Forces 2025 lists 52 on order at different times. This reflects batch releases towards the program goal.
How Has Annual Output Changed From 2022?
Deliveries were modest in 2022, totaling six. In 2023, 12 more were added. 2024 saw a sharp increase, showing the new KnAAZ line’s impact.
What Impact Did the New Production Line Have in 2024–2025?
The new line at KnAAZ boosted production. Deliveries rose in 2024, reaching about 42 by year’s end and 44 by April 2025. Despite missed targets, output was higher than in 2023.
What Are the Core Capabilities of the Su-57?
The Su-57 has low-observable shaping and internal weapons bays. It can supermaneuver with thrust vectoring and LEVCONs. It also has an integrated sensor suite with active phased-array radar. It’s designed for air superiority and strikes against air, ground, and sea targets.
What Upgrades Are Planned for the Su-57M/Su-57M1?
Upgrades include new electronics and AI-enabled pilot aids. The AL-51F-1 (izdeliye 30) engine will improve range and signatures. An upgraded Su-57 flew on October 21, 2022. The Su-57M1 was unveiled in May 2025.
