Russia has delivered the first two Su-57E export-variant stealth fighters to an undisclosed foreign customer, with the aircraft now entering combat duty. United Aircraft Corporation Director General Vadim Badeka announced the handover, fueling widespread speculation that Algeria is the buyer.
This marks the initial confirmed export of Moscow’s fifth-generation Felon jet, upgraded with combat lessons from Ukraine, including two-dimensional thrust-vectoring nozzles showcased at the 2025 Dubai Airshow.
Rostec CEO Sergey Chemezov highlighted surging demand from multiple nations, attributing interest to ongoing enhancements based on real-world operations. The Su-57E pitch emphasizes these improvements to attract buyers facing sanctions and capacity constraints.
Algeria leads speculation after Rosoboronexport signals in early 2025 and state media hints, with reports of a potential 12-aircraft deal plus Su-34 bombers. No visual confirmation or official claim from Algiers has emerged.
Other prospects include Vietnam, Iran, North Korea, and past suitors like India and the UAE, where local production was offered. The Zhuhai Airshow in November 2025 drew further unnamed interest, signaling Russia’s push to expand high-end fighter sales amid financial pressures.
Exports validate Su-57 production viability and bolster Russia’s defense revenue, though buyer secrecy underscores geopolitical risks.