Russia’s Su-75: Can Putin’s F-35 Rival Ever Get Off the Ground?
Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation announced in June that construction is underway on the first flying prototype of the Su-75 Checkmate – Moscow’s answer to the Lockheed Martin F-35. Promoted as cheaper and more advanced with AI-assisted systems, the project has been plagued by years of delays and remains untested in flight.
Russia unveiled the Su-75 Checkmate prototype at the International Aviation & Space Show (MAKS) in July 2021, positioning it as Moscow’s answer to the United States’ F-35 and intended to replace Soviet-era aircraft like the MiG 21 and MiG 23. The Su-75 is touted as lighter, faster, higher-flying, more maneuverable, potentially cost-effective, and technically superior.
Despite the claims, the prototype has yet to take to the skies. United Aircraft Corporation (OAK) announced that the first flying prototype is being constructed at the KnAAZ plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Russia’s far east. Critics question whether the Su-75 can compete with numerous US and Chinese equivalents already in service, despite its purported lower cost.
The F-35, the Su-75’s primary rival, first took flight in December 2006, with production variants following in February 2011. OAK asserts the Su-75 can reach speeds up to Mach 1.8 (2,200 kph / 1,380 mph), fly over 2,900 kilometers (1,800 miles) without external fuel, and carry a payload of up to 7,400 kilograms (16,280 pounds). Its stealth mode can be maintained with up to five air-to-air missiles stored internally, while advanced AI software enhances its navigation and flight systems.
The Su-75 is also reported to be less expensive, costing $30 million versus $80 million for the F-35, and requiring less fuel per hour. An unmanned version of the Su-75 was showcased at the Dubai Airshow in November 2025, complete with an updated design, aiming to serve as a "unmanned wingman" for other aircraft. However, OAK's assertions need to be substantiated through actual flight tests, which they predict will occur "soon."
Written by urgent.news from Kyiv Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
