The Sukhoi SU-57 Felon is a Russian multi-role fighter jet of the fifth generation, which has been in development since 2010. It was originally designed to replace older models like the SU-27 and SU-35. Developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau for the Russian Air Force, the Sukhoi SU-57 combines advanced stealth capabilities, high-speed performance, and modern avionics. It can reach speeds of about 2,600 km/h (1,615 mph), has a range of up to 5,500 kilometers (3,418 miles), and can fly at altitudes of around 20 kilometers (65,617 feet). The empty weight of the aircraft is about 18,000 kg (39,683 pounds), with a maximum takeoff weight of around 35,000 kg (77,162 pounds). The project was led by Mikhail Pogosyan, a renowned Russian aerospace engineer.Designed to meet the demands of modern warfare, the Sukhoi SU-57 features advanced stealth technologies like specially designed air intake channels and an internal weapons bay. It also boasts an N036 Belka radar system, which has a range of over 400 km (248 miles) and can track up to 10 targets simultaneously. The jet is powered by a powerful AL-41F1 engine that ensures superior maneuverability and efficiency in combat situations. The price tag for a single Sukhoi SU-57 is around million.
The Sukhoi SU-57 has seen action in conflicts like Syria and Ukraine. It was first tested operationally in Syria to check its battlefield capabilities, particularly against asymmetric threats. The aim was to evaluate the onboard electronics and weapons integration under real combat conditions. During the Ukraine conflict, the jet was used in limited operations to support Russian forces.So far, the primary user of the Sukhoi SU-57 has been Russia itself. There have been reports of potential interest from other nations, but as of now, no sales deals with foreign countries are on the table, highlighting the jet's strategic importance for Russian military planning.
The Sukhoi SU-57 carries a wide array of weapons, both in internal bays and on external hardpoints. Air-to-air missiles like the R-77, which can reach targets up to 80 kilometers (50 miles) away, are among its primary weapons. Its radar-lock technology ensures precise targeting. For ground attacks, the Kh-59MK2 cruise missile can be used, which has a range of 550 kilometers (342 miles) and features GPS-guided targeting for precision strikes. Other armament options include the Kh-35, designed for anti-ship operations, and laser-guided bombs like the FAB-500.The internal weapons bays contribute significantly to the jet’s stealth capabilities, while external mounting can be used when needed, although it might reduce stealth due to an increased radar signature.
This 1/72 scale miniature of the Sukhoi SU-57 Felon is made by Hobby Master and is part of the collection of Modelly member “Forza.” The miniature stands out due to its use of high-quality diecast material, making it super sturdy and authentic-looking. The detailed painting shows off the classic digital camouflage that makes the aircraft hard to spot by radar. Special details like the marking “054” and the red stars on the wings and tail emphasize its Russian roots, mirroring the actual markings of an operational jet.The armaments on the wings include miniature rockets typical for the Sukhoi SU-57. Just like the real deal, the wings have a distinct geometric shape to highlight stealth capabilities. On the underside of the miniature, the air intakes and landing gear are well-crafted, showcasing the attention to detail in this collector’s edition. The model measures about 30 cm (11.8 inches) in length, matching the real aircraft’s size in the 1/72 scale.
This Sukhoi SU-57 Felon miniature by Hobby Master holds a special spot for collectors worldwide. It's an accurate replica of the Sukhoi SU-57, standing out with the precision and durability of the diecast material and realistic paint job. As a 1/72 scale model, it's perfect for display and definitely a highlight in any collection.The model offers a fantastic entry into the world of modern military aircraft and is ideal for comparing with other jets of the fifth generation due to its size and scale. For aviation enthusiasts and historians, it opens up an exciting perspective on Russia’s latest advancements in aviation technology.
The Sukhoi SU-57, known by its NATO codename “Felon,” is considered one of the coolest state-of-the-art fighter jets out there, representing the fifth generation of military aircraft (5th Generation). It started being developed around 2010 to meet modern military needs and to make sure the Russian Air Force stays cutting edge. Crafted by Russian aerospace manufacturer Sukhoi and masterminded by top engineers like Mikhail Pogosyan and Sergey Bogdan, this aircraft is quite impressive, measuring about 63.7 feet (19.4 meters) in length, with a wingspan of 45.9 feet (14 meters) and a max takeoff weight of around 77,161 pounds (35,000 kilograms).
The Sukhoi SU-57 is all about that stealth tech, exceptional maneuverability, and can reach speeds of up to 1,615 mph (2,600 km/h). With a range of approximately 2,237 miles (3,600 kilometers), it’s perfect for long-range missions. The price tag for this bad boy sits at around to million per jet, depending on the options and export conditions. Its special features, like a reduced radar signature achieved through composite materials and special coatings, make the SU-57 a key player in modern air warfare.
The Sukhoi SU-57 is loaded with some of the most advanced weaponry. This includes missiles like the K-77M, a long-range air-to-air missile, and the KAB-500, designed for precision strikes against ground targets. It’s even capable of carrying hypersonic weapons like the Kinzhal if needed. To top it off, it has a 30mm cannon (GSh-30-1) for those close-in dogfight situations. The total payload is about 22,046 pounds (10 tons), which can be carried in internal weapon bays to keep its stealth profile intact.
The flexibility of this jet is thanks to its ability to effectively engage both ground and air targets. Its radar systems, especially the N036 Byelka AESA radar, can track multiple targets at once, making it highly effective in complex combat scenarios. Plus, it boasts sensor fusion and neural networks to help the pilot make split-second decisions.
The Sukhoi SU-57 first saw some action during the Syria conflict in the 2010s. Here, it was mainly used to test out its tech and gather real-time data on the battlefield. Russia capitalized on the situation to get hands-on experience with its advanced assistance systems and stealth capabilities against actual targets. So far, Russia remains the primary user of this jet, although there have been talks about exporting it to countries like India and China.
More recently, reports suggest that the jet may have been used in the Ukraine conflict, where it was primarily utilized for aerial reconnaissance and as a platform for air-to-air intercepts. Its combo of stealth, precision, and speed makes it super effective in such situations. Even though it’s been tested out in these scenarios, full integration into the Russian military operations is still a work in progress.
Check out this collector’s piece, a high-quality miniature model of the Sukhoi SU-57, made by Hobby Master in 1/72 scale! It’s part of the "Forza" collection from the Modelly community. The model really pops with its authentic pixelated gray-white camouflage that perfectly mirrors the paint job of the Russian Air Force. Plus, the detailed representation of its weapons, from missile pylons to main armaments, is seriously impressive.
What makes this model stand out are the precision details, like flaps, intakes, cockpits, and movable landing flaps—showing off some top-notch engineering. The 1/72 model from Hobby Master is super appealing for collectors because it gives a realistic vibe of one of the most advanced fighter jets around today. It’s definitely a hot item on the market!