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Russia’s First Su-57 Showcase in China Draws Criticism Over Design Flaws

Russia’s First Su-57 Showcase in China Draws Criticism Over Design Flaws

Making its first public appearance in China, Russia’s fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet quickly captured attention, not only for its design but also due to the numerous technical questions it raised among observers.

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Ivan_khomenko
Ivan Khomenko
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The recent participation of Russia’s Su-57 fighter jet at the Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai has ignited discussions about the aircraft’s technological credibility. This event marked the first time the Su-57 has appeared at an international airshow outside Russia, raising questions about the aircraft’s designation as a fifth-generation fighter.

According to Defense Express, observers noted the visible shortcomings in the Su-57's design, including an excessive number of bolts securing the fuselage panels, and criticized the overall quality of the aircraft’s assembly. This scrutiny was further compounded by the detailed footage of the aircraft captured by Chinese media, revealing aspects of its construction previously shielded from public view.

Images of the aircraft’s tail section also emerged for the first time, highlighting a mix of fasteners, including cross, flat, and hex screws. The junctions between the weapon bay and the fuselage prompted analysts to reflect on the technological standards of Russian aerospace manufacturing.

As videos of the Su-57 circulated on Chinese social media, users expressed skepticism about the aircraft’s capabilities.

In contrast, users drew comparisons to China’s Chengdu J-20, which is officially recognized as a fifth-generation fighter. However, China has also been reticent to display the J-20 closely, reflecting similar concerns about the perception of its own technology.

A Chinese fifth-generation J-20 stealth fighter jet is pictured rehearsing for the 2023 Changchun Air Show on July 24, 2023, in Changchun, Jilin Province. (Source: Getty Images)
A Chinese fifth-generation J-20 stealth fighter jet is pictured rehearsing for the 2023 Changchun Air Show on July 24, 2023, in Changchun, Jilin Province. (Source: Getty Images)

The Su-57, frequently promoted by Russia as a leading stealth fighter, is facing growing scrutiny ahead of its scheduled flight demonstrations at the airshow, along with the static display of a second unit.

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