Su-57's Secret Weapon Bay Revealed: New Photo Offers First Clear Look at Stealth Fighter's Design

A recently surfaced photograph has provided the first clear look at the Su-57's side weapon bay, a previously shrouded feature of Russia's advanced fifth-generation fighter jet. This revelation offers valuable insights into the aircraft's stealth capabilities and combat doctrine.

The Su-57, Russia's answer to the American F-22 and F-35, is designed for both air superiority and multirole missions. Its emphasis on agility, advanced avionics, and stealth technology places it among the most formidable fighter aircraft in the world.

The side weapon bay, located near the fuselage, is crucial for maintaining the Su-57's low radar cross-section (RCS). By storing weapons internally, the aircraft minimizes its radar signature, making it more difficult for adversaries to detect.

Analysis of the photograph suggests that the side bay is optimized for short-range air-to-air missiles, likely the highly agile R-73 or the newer K-74M2. This configuration aligns with the Su-57's focus on within-visual-range (WVR) combat, where its maneuverability and advanced avionics give it a significant edge.

Key Takeaways from the Photo​

• Potential for Advanced Sensors: The bay may house advanced targeting sensors, enhancing the Su-57's lock-on-after-launch (LOAL) capabilities and enabling it to engage multiple targets effectively.
• Compact Missile Configuration: The bay's design suggests it is tailored for compact, short-range missiles, ideal for close-range dogfights.
• Enhanced Maneuverability: The side bay's location allows for rapid missile deployment, crucial in dynamic WVR combat.
• Stealth Optimization: Internal weapon storage significantly reduces the Su-57's RCS, enhancing its survivability.

While other fifth-generation fighters, like the F-22 and F-35, also utilize internal weapon bays, the Su-57's side bay represents a distinct approach. This design choice underscores Russia's emphasis on close-range combat and maneuverability, reflecting their combat doctrine.

This new information adds another layer to our understanding of the Su-57's capabilities and provides valuable insights into Russia's evolving military aviation technology.

 

[Pad UwU]

its not. The few su 57s actually made are being hidden up for most of the time. One of them very recently got destroyed by a drone even very recently. The real damage dealers are mostly su-35s

Nah it's still not blown to bits, instead it was damage but not destroyed by what you claim

 

[P2S2]

India should evaluate this. Consider asking for improvements and if improvements are done then buy 2-3 squadrons. Also, consider joint development of izdeilye engine which can be used in AMCA as well.

Excellent thinking but I feel burdening the creators with other requirements interferes with their thought processes. If you like, order what you can afford. You will get a super product.