Sukhoi PAK FA Stealthy air superiority fighter

The Sukhoi PAK FA (or Future Frontline Aircraft System), is a new Russian air superiority fighter. It is considered as a Russian answer to the US F-22 Raptor. Development of this new aircraft commenced in 2001. The T-50 prototype was revealed and made it's maiden flight in 2010. This fighter aircraft is expected to enter service with the Russian Air Force in 2015. It will probably receive a regular Su- designation. The PAK FA is intended to replace the ageing MiG-29 Fulcrums and Su-27 Flankers. Some sources report, that Russia plans to acquire up to 150 - 200 of these new fighters. Despite being referred as a fifth-generation fighter, there are some serious doubts about it, as some US Military officials refer the Sukhoi PAK FA only as advanced forth-generation fighter.

   Development of this aircraft was also funded by India, which also plans to acquire up to 250 of these next-generation fighters, known as the HAL FGFA or Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft. The Indian aircraft version will be different from the Russian version. Some sources report, that the HAL FGFA will has a twin-seat configuration. It is claimed that the PAK FA will also be proposed for other export customers.

   This stealthy air superiority fighter has a generally conventional layout. The PAK FA uses stealth shaping to deflect radar waves. It was expected to use two Saturn 117S engines, producing 142 kN of thrust in afterburning and 86.3 kN dry. However the T-50 prototype used a completely new Saturn engines during it's maiden flight, that generate a larger thrust. Exact specifications of the new engine are unknown. Some sources claim, that it produced 175 kN of thrust in afterburning. The PAK FA is capable of flying at supersonic speeds without using afterburner.

   Two large weapon bays are mounted in tandem between the engines. There are also two sidebays for short-range air-to-air missiles. It is believed that this aircraft will carry up to 7 500 kg of ordnance. This fighter has 10 internal and 6 external hardpoints for the R-74M Archer and R-77M Adder air-to-air missiles.

   The Russian Sukhoi PAK FA will also be available as a twin-seater.