Su-57E Flight Tests Demonstrate Extended Range Without External Fuel Tanks.

The state-owned corporation Rostec confirmed that the Su-57Э fighter jet demonstrated an exceptional range when utilizing internal fuel tanks placed in cargo bays. This export variant of the fifth-generation aircraft did not require external drop tanks because those internal containers solved the problem. The design choice preserved the plane's low observability.

Rostec stated that the flight to the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt required only one intermediate stop. After landing, the Su-57Э still carried enough fuel for another 1000 kilometers. That reserve powered a demonstration sortie the following day. The exercise consumed resources equivalent to a full-scale air battle.

Reuters had previously reported that Russia would unveil new weaponry for the Su-57Э at the same Egyptian aviation show in 2026. A representative from Rosoboronexport told the agency that these specific items were already used in combat conditions. He described the system as a combination of a missile and a drone.

Rostec had previously shared details about the combat potential of the Russian Su-57 before this latest test.