F-35 vs Sukhoi Su-57: A Comprehensive Comparison of Fifth-Generation Stealth Fighters
Introduction
The modern battlefield is dominated by technology, and nowhere is this more evident than in the development of fifth-generation fighter jets. Two of the most advanced aircraft in this class are the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II from the United States and the Sukhoi Su-57 Felon from Russia. Both jets represent the pinnacle of stealth, sensor integration, and multi-role versatility, but they differ significantly in design philosophy, operational doctrine, and global impact.
This article offers a deep dive into the capabilities, features, and real-world relevance of the F-35 and Su-57, comparing them across multiple critical dimensions.
1. Development History
F-35 Lightning II
- Developer: Lockheed Martin
- Program Start: 1996 (Joint Strike Fighter program)
- First Flight: 2006
- Operational Status: 2015 (USAF), operational in over 15 countries
- Variants: F-35A (CTOL), F-35B (STOVL), F-35C (Carrier-based)
The F-35 was developed under the Joint Strike Fighter program to serve the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps with a single platform. It focused on stealth, network-centric warfare, and multinational interoperability.
Sukhoi Su-57 Felon
- Developer: Sukhoi (UAC, Russia)
- Program Start: Early 2000s (as PAK FA project)
- First Flight: 2010
- Operational Status: 2020 (limited induction)
- Variants: Su-57E (export), future twin-seat and UAV control versions under development
The Su-57 was Russia’s response to American stealth fighters like the F-22 and F-35. It emphasizes supermaneuverability, internal weapons carriage, and long-range engagement capabilities.
2. Design Philosophy
Stealth and Shaping
- F-35: Prioritizes all-aspect stealth, especially in frontal radar cross-section (RCS), with smooth surfaces and internal weapon bays.
- Su-57: Incorporates partial stealth; uses radar-reducing materials and shaping but maintains traditional Russian emphasis on aerodynamics and agility.
Engine Placement
- F-35: Single-engine design for efficiency and maintainability.
- Su-57: Twin-engine layout offering better thrust and redundancy.
3. Avionics and Sensors
F-35 Lightning II
- AN/APG-81 AESA Radar
- Distributed Aperture System (DAS)
- Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS)
- Advanced data fusion and sensor integration
- Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD) – pilots can “see through” the aircraft
The F-35 is unmatched in sensor fusion, offering pilots a complete battlefield picture. It excels in electronic warfare and situational awareness.
Su-57 Felon
- N036 Byelka AESA radar (including side-facing radars)
- Infrared Search and Track (IRST)
- L-band radars for stealth aircraft detection
- Sensor fusion in progress but not as mature as the F-35
The Su-57 aims to detect stealth aircraft using diverse radar bands and IRST but lacks the unified data fusion system of the F-35.
4. Performance Metrics
| Feature | F-35A | Su-57 |
|---|---|---|
| Top Speed | Mach 1.6 | Mach 2.0 |
| Combat Radius | ~1,100 km | ~1,500 km |
| Range | ~2,200 km | ~3,500 km (with drop tanks) |
| Thrust Vectoring | No | Yes (3D) |
| Supercruise | Limited (F-35 not optimized) | Yes (Mach 1.3) |
While the F-35 prioritizes stealth and sensors, the Su-57 favors raw performance and maneuverability, especially with its 3D thrust vectoring.
5. Weapons and Payload
F-35
- Internal bays for stealth missions (up to 4 AIM-120 or JDAMs)
- External hardpoints (non-stealth mode): up to 18,000 lbs
- Can carry:
- AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-9X Sidewinder
- JDAMs, GBU-series bombs
- B61 nuclear bombs (F-35A)
- Anti-ship and cruise missiles
Su-57
- Internal bays + 6 external hardpoints
- Can carry:
- R-77 and R-74 air-to-air missiles
- KH-59MK2 and KH-58UShKE cruise missiles
- Hypersonic missiles (in future)
- Precision-guided bombs
Su-57 is expected to carry hypersonic weapons and long-range munitions. However, weapon integration is still evolving.
6. Stealth Capabilities
- Radar Cross Section (RCS):
- F-35: Estimated at 0.001–0.005 m² (frontal)
- Su-57: Estimated at 0.1–0.5 m² (frontal)
- Infrared Signature:
- F-35: Lower due to shielding and design
- Su-57: Higher due to exposed engines and larger exhaust
The F-35 has a clear edge in stealth, especially against ground-based radar and in contested airspaces.
7. Operational Use and Exports
F-35 Lightning II
- In service in 15+ countries, including UK, Israel, Japan, Australia, Italy
- Used in combat by Israel (Syria, Iran-backed militias)
- Mass production underway
- Global support ecosystem
Su-57 Felon
- Very limited production
- As of 2025, only a dozen Su-57s delivered to Russian Air Force
- Potential exports to India, Algeria, Vietnam (but no confirmed deals)
- Used sparingly in Ukraine for standoff strikes
8. Cost and Maintenance
| Feature | F-35 | Su-57 |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Cost | ~$80 million (F-35A) | Estimated $40–60 million |
| Operating Cost/hr | ~$35,000 | Unknown, estimated ~$20,000–25,000 |
| Maintenance Complexity | High (due to stealth coatings, software) | Moderate (less stealth-focused) |
F-35 is more expensive but benefits from mass production, global logistics, and software support. The Su-57 is cheaper per unit, but Russia faces delays and resource constraints.
9. Future Upgrades
F-35 Block 4 and Beyond
- Enhanced radar and engine
- AI-powered mission systems
- New electronic warfare suite
- Long-range air-to-air missile integration (AIM-260 JATM)
Su-57 Future Variants
- Izdeliye 30 engine (improves thrust and supercruise)
- Su-57M variant with AI, drones support
- Loyal wingman (Okhotnik UCAV) integration
- Two-seat version for drone command/control
10. Strategic Relevance
F-35:
- Backbone of NATO and allied air power
- Designed for network-centric warfare
- Functions as a flying sensor hub
Su-57:
- Offers strategic deterrence and prestige for Russia
- Emphasizes anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) tactics
- Potential future hybrid roles with drone swarms
Conclusion
The F-35 Lightning II and Sukhoi Su-57 Felon represent two very different approaches to air combat in the 21st century. The F-35 is a true stealth multirole platform focused on data fusion, precision strikes, and electronic dominance. The Su-57, on the other hand, merges maneuverability, advanced sensors, and diverse weapons to create a formidable air superiority fighter.
Which is better? That depends on the battlefield and strategy:
- In stealth and network warfare, the F-35 is far ahead.
- In raw performance and dogfighting, the Su-57 holds advantages.
- In terms of global impact and readiness, the F-35 is unmatched.
