Image source: topwar.ru
The development program of the promising single-engine Su-75 Checkmate fighter has faced a number of difficulties, Russia is unlikely to be able to create an aircraft in the previously announced terms. 19FortyFive columnist Maya Karlin came to this opinion.
The author of the American edition believes that the declared characteristics of the Russian fighter, as well as its low price, are very attractive for potential customers, especially for the countries of the Middle East, Asia and Africa. However, since the presentation at the MAKS-2021 air show, work on the aircraft has not progressed far, as there are a number of reasons for this.
Firstly, the observer emphasizes, having started the war in Ukraine, Russia finally cut off its access to Western equipment and components that can be used in the design of the aircraft. Secondly, the lack of funds necessary to continue the work. According to Maya Karlin, the United Arab Emirates allegedly suspended its participation in the project, having lost interest in it. And thirdly, increasing the development time and complexity of the design can scare off potential buyers.
- the author claims.
Meanwhile, in September last year, the UAC confirmed all plans to create the Su-75 Checkmate. According to the plans of the Sukhoi company, which is part of the UAC, the installation batch of the Su-75 will be produced in 2026, as previously planned. Before that, the UAC plans to build four prototypes of the fighter, which will participate in the tests. As previously reported, prototypes will appear in 2024-2025, an installation batch in 2026, and serial deliveries of the new fighter will begin in 2026-2027.
The promising single-engine fighter of the fifth generation Checkmate was developed taking into account deliveries to both Russian VKS and foreign customers. Declared characteristics: the speed is up to 2M, the flight range is up to 3 thousand km, the payload weight is 7.4 thousand kg. A radar with AFAR, a circular optical and radio intelligence system, a built-in electronic interference system, an optical sighting system, a wide-range communication system is installed.
