Escorted by two Su-35 jets, the Su-57 carried out a missile strike utilizing the Kh-69 stealthy cruise missile, a weapon designed exclusively for this aircraft. The operation originated from the Russian-occupied territory in the Luhansk region, with the Su-57 making a strategic entry into Ukrainian airspace for the execution of this strike.
However, the mission did not go as planned. Reports indicate that due to a technical malfunction, the missile deviated from its intended path and ultimately crashed in a field, failing to hit the target. This incident highlights the challenges and complexities of employing advanced military technology in combat situations.
The Su-57 Felon, developed by the Russian aerospace company Sukhoi, is touted as a fifth-generation stealth fighter with capabilities to engage land, air, and maritime targets effectively. Its development began in the early 2000s, with its maiden flight taking place in January 2010. The aircraft underwent combat testing in Syria in 2018, demonstrating Russia’s intent to showcase its military prowess on the global stage.
The Kh-69 missile, employed in the recent strike, is a derivative of the Kh-59MK2 and can be launched from various Russian combat aircraft. Despite the setback on February 18, there have been successful deployments of this missile in previous airstrikes conducted on February 7 and 8, indicating its strategic importance to Russian military operations.
In a broader context, the use of the Su-57 in Ukraine is seen as part of a military propaganda effort by Russia. Sources suggest that footage from the strike will be used in a propaganda film intended to highlight the success and advancement of the Russian defence industry. This move comes ahead of the upcoming presidential elections in Russia, signaling the Kremlin’s desire to bolster national pride and showcase military achievements.
