Russia has begun testing a twin-seat variant of the Su-57 stealth fighter, designated as the Su-57D Felon [1].
The development of this aircraft marks a shift toward network-centric warfare. By adding a second crew member, Russia aims to integrate manned-unmanned combat operations, allowing the jet to direct combat drones in real time [2, 3].
Reports of taxi trials for the aircraft surfaced on May 17 [1]. The Su-57D subsequently completed its first flight on May 19 [2]. Test pilot Sergei Bogdan was involved in the flight trials of the new airframe [1].
To accommodate the second crew member, the aircraft features a tandem cockpit and an elongated canopy [2]. This design change allows the aircraft to function as an aerial command center, a role that separates it from the single-seat versions of the Felon.
The United Aircraft Corporation and Sukhoi are driving the project to enhance capabilities during high-intensity missions [1, 2]. The goal is to create a platform capable of managing complex drone swarms while maintaining stealth characteristics [2, 3].
This transition to a two-seat configuration suggests a move away from traditional dogfighting toward a supervisory role. The second officer would likely manage the electronic warfare and drone coordination systems, reducing the cognitive load on the primary pilot [2, 3].
“The Su-57D is intended to act as an airborne command centre for drone operations.”
The introduction of the Su-57D indicates that Russia is prioritizing the 'loyal wingman' concept, where a manned stealth aircraft controls multiple autonomous platforms. This strategy seeks to increase force multiplication and reduce risk to human pilots by pushing drones into high-threat environments while the command aircraft remains at a safer distance.
