A new social media image shows Russia’s light stealth fighter Su-75 “Checkmate” positioned alongside the larger Su-57, a pairing rarely seen outside official promotional shots. The sighting suggests potential test integration or preparatory activity, which could affect regional airpower assessments, procurement planning, and export interest.
The Su-75 is a single-engine, low-observable fifth-generation multirole fighter designed by Sukhoi under United Aircraft Corporation. Its airframe features a diverterless supersonic inlet, V-tail, and internal weapons bays to reduce radar cross-section. Planned specifications include a top speed of Mach 1.8–2.0, combat payload around 7,400 kg, and ferry range near 3,000 km, placing it in direct competition with export-oriented platforms like the F-35 and China’s FC-31.
Propulsion is set to rely on the AL-51F-1 engine, which is approximately 30% lighter and up to 18% more efficient than its predecessor. This engine aims to optimize the trade-off between range, payload, and stealth. The aircraft is designed to leverage Su-57 industrial components to reduce costs, while co-production talks with Belarus hint at a first foreign operator near NATO borders.
Operationally, the Su-75 emphasizes affordability, modularity, and lower logistical demands. Compared to the F-35, its advantage would be acquisition cost and simplicity of operation. Against the Su-57, it trades raw performance for a smaller radar signature and export-friendly pricing. Relative to China’s FC-31, single-engine design and simplified maintenance are selling points for potential buyers seeking fifth-generation features at lower costs.
The observed ground crew setting wheel chocks signals active test preparation rather than a static display. Seen next to a Su-57, this suggests engine runs, taxi trials, or coordinated test procedures. If further imagery and telemetry confirm taxiing or flight, the Su-75 will transition from a contested promise to an operational factor in Eastern Europe and global export markets.
