The unmanned version of the Checkmate light tactical aircraft (LTS) will make it possible to implement new tactical techniques. Yuri Slyusar, CEO of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), revealed the features of the stand-alone version of Checkmate to TASS .
He stressed that Checkmate was initially created as the basis for a family of aviation complexes. The aircraft will become a platform for unmanned and optionally manned modifications.
"The unmanned modification is not just a fashion statement. We are already at an early stage of the project laying in it ample opportunities for use in the framework of network-centric military operations. The aircraft will be able to exchange information and target other aircraft systems and unmanned aerial vehicles. The use of unmanned versions of the machine will allow, among other things, to implement new tactical techniques," said Slyusar.
The LTS was presented at the International Aviation and Space Salon MAKS-2021 in July. The aircraft will receive a radar station with an active phased array antenna, an electronic warfare complex, as well as optical and radio intelligence equipment. As noted by the head of Rostec Sergey Chemezov, the cost of the aircraft will be from 25 to 35 million dollars.
At the presentation of the aircraft in July, Yuri Slyusar said about creating an unmanned Checkmate modification. According to him, a single-engine fighter can arouse interest in the Aerospace Forces of Russia.
Daniil Irinin
