Russia recently unveiled a prototype for a new stealth fighter jet.

Developed under Russia’s Light Tactical Aircraft program, this warplane was presented at the MAKS-2021 International Aviation and Space Salon in Zhukovsky, Russia. The fighter jet is unnamed but is being developed under the name “Checkmate.” It’s set to make its first flight in 2023 and deliveries in 2026.

According to the Military, this aircraft is smaller than Russia’s Su-57 two-engine stealth fighter, with one engine. It can also fly at 1.8-2 times the speed of sound, with a range of 3,000 kilometers (1,864 meters).

President Vladimir Putin stated the following:

“What we see now in Zhukovsky obviously demonstrates that the Russian aviation has high potential for development.”

“Our aircraft industry also continues creating new competitive aviation equipment.”

The new fighter jet is set to rival the United States’ military fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter.

Business Insider advised that the “Checkmate” has a max speed of Mach 2 (1,500 mph) and a payload capacity of 16,000 lbs. It can also be adjusted from a single-seat aircraft to a two-seater.

Foreign buyers have reportedly expressed interest in buying the jet. And it’s estimated that the plane will cost anywhere from $25 million to $30 million.

Until Next Time…

(Sources)

Photo Credit: Business Insider

Isachenkov, V. (2021, July 20). Russia Unveils New Fighter, Putin Hails Country’s Air Power. Military. https://www.military.com/daily-news/2021/07/20/russia-unveils-new-fighter-putin-hails-countrys-air-power.html.

Pickrell, R. (2021, July 20). Russia unveiled its new ‘Checkmate’ fighter jet as Putin heaped praise on the country’s aviation industry. Business Insider. https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-unveils-a-new-fighter-jet-putin-praises-aviation-industry-2021-7.