Attention Asia: More Russian Su-57E Stealth Fighters Are Coming

Charlie Gao

Security,

But who is buying?

Key point: Myanmar is looking to modernize its air force.

At MAKS 2019, Sukhoi demonstrated the export version of its premier air superiority fighter, the Su-57E. While the existence of an export version was practically guaranteed given that Russia has continually attempted to partner with select nations during development, the export version shown at MAKS should be available to practically anyone who wants to buy it. However, when Myanmar’s ambassador to Russia indicated that they would be interested in the Su-57, it came as a surprise to many defense watchers.

While not tiny, Myanmar’s air force doesn’t have many modern jets. According to The Military Balance 2019, Myanmar’s frontline fighters are a small fleet of MiG-29s, augmented by obsolescent Chinese F-7s. While Myanmar put in an order for six Su-30s in 2018, these fighters are still being delivered.

The recent nature of the Su-30 order is probably why Myanmar is interested in the Su-57. If the government has money earmarked for additional Su-30 orders, this could be easily transferred into Su-57 orders. Surprisingly, the price of the Su-30 is roughly similar to the Su-57. Russian military expert Michael Kofman mentions that most sticker price estimates of the Su-57 are at between 45 to 54 million dollars per unit, though Russia has spent significantly more on the program, per aircraft.

Comparatively, Myanmar’s Su-30SM’s cost between 35 to 50 million dollars per unit. 35 million is at the low end of the price range, and presumably, a Su-30SM ordered in 2018 would have some level of upgrades to stay competitive with newer Su-35 models. It’s likely that Myanmar’s Su-30SMs cost is closer to 50 million for this reason.

As a result, Myanmar could presumably upgrade from the Su-30SM to the Su-57E at relatively low cost for a fighter, with a significant increase in capability. But is the Su-57E well suited to what Myanmar might use it for?