Sukhoi Su-30MKI's Imposing Size Vs Su-57's Stealth Design: Aero India 2025 Image Sparks Comparisons

A striking image from Aero India 2025 featuring the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and the Sukhoi Su-57 parked side-by-side has become a viral sensation, capturing the attention of India's defence community. This visual comparison of the two powerful aircraft has ignited widespread discussion and debate regarding their respective capabilities, roles, and the future of air combat within the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The widely circulated image showcases the Su-30MKI, a long-serving workhorse of the IAF, appearing significantly larger than the Su-57, Russia's latest fifth-generation stealth fighter. The Su-30MKI, with its twin tails and canards, presents a visibly larger profile, leading many enthusiasts to comment on its size and apparent robustness.

This contrast in size has fueled speculation about the relative advantages of each aircraft. Some observers have suggested that the Su-30MKI's larger dimensions may translate to a greater payload capacity and enhanced operational flexibility. Conversely, others have emphasized the significance of the Su-57's stealth capabilities, arguing that size is not the sole determinant of success in modern aerial warfare. The Su-57's design prioritizes a reduced radar cross-section, making it more difficult to detect, a crucial advantage in future conflicts.

The image has also prompted discussions regarding the potential integration of the Su-57 into the IAF. Some enthusiasts envision a mixed fleet strategy, where both aircraft types could complement each other's strengths. The Su-57's advanced capabilities could potentially revolutionize India's air combat doctrine, while the Su-30MKI continues to provide proven reliability.

Further debate has centered on performance metrics such as speed, maneuverability, and weapon systems. While the Su-30MKI is recognized for its agility and combat record, the Su-57's cutting-edge technology promises to redefine air warfare.

Ultimately, the side-by-side display at Aero India 2025 has served as both a visual spectacle and a catalyst for in-depth conversations about the evolving role of fighter jets in India's defence strategy. While the Su-30MKI remains a cornerstone of the IAF, the keen interest in the Su-57 underscores India's ambition to embrace the era of fifth-generation fighters, potentially through joint development or acquisition.

 

[sanket]

Major difference is thrust of engine & technology and combat range firing heavy weapons.

 

[Mayukh Pankaj]

Air marshalls should dive it a test, I think given already presence of the support system of Su30. It's a better choice compared to F35. Cause Americans can't be trusted. They have cancelled demo , tommorow they can cancel spare parts amid wars.

 

[Atif Alam Rahman]

Su30MKI is even larger than the F22 Raptor. Is it better though?

 

[Anant]

Air marshalls should dive it a test, I think given already presence of the support system of Su30. It's a better choice compared to F35. Cause Americans can't be trusted. They have cancelled demo , tommorow they can cancel spare parts amid wars.

They cancelled the demonstration flights due to the ongoing investigation regarding the crash in Alaska. Similar displays have been cancelled till atleast March in other places too.

 

[Sandeep]

A stealth jet is supposed to be smaller, thinner and sleeker to hide its radar cross section. To bring parity then our Sukhoi jets should be coated with radar absorbing paint which will help to give it some stealth capabilities. We can also increase the amount of composites we use on the Sukhoi jets which will help even more to replace all of that open metal.

 

[Dipesh Debnath]

Non stealth planes carry non foldable missiles and bombs. Cruise missiles of Su30mki shown in 1997 I remember had x59m with fixed motor hanging below missile. AAMs had large fins. In stealth mode motors generally hidden inside missile body and fins are foldable to reduce storage space. Stealth aircrafts carry internal bomb load with foldable missiles. Also stealth design is flat and tilted to reduce rcs. Su30mki is 2 seater and su57 is single seater. So all these make stealth plane look more smaller, smooth,slim from distance.

 

[Dipesh Debnath]

I like the paint design of SU-57, it shows the concept of stealth. The actual shape is outlined in white, the perceived reduced RCS based smaller aircraft is drawn in grey. The painting is like modern art.

 

[Hammer]

Major difference is thrust of engine & technology and combat range firing heavy weapons.

It's completely different. Only common is they are FIGHTERS are RUSSIAN