Russia began preparations for the production of the first Checkmate fighters

Preparations for the production of the first samples of the fifth-generation Checkmate light fighters have begun in Russia. This was announced by the press service of Rostec State Corporation on the eve of Dubai Airshow 2023.

Rostec’s press service said that based on the work carried out, the design was amended, which also adjusted the timing of the first flight. The design documentation has been transferred to the manufacturing plant and preparations for production of the first samples have begun.

The overseas premiere of Checkmate took place at the Dubai Airshow in 2021. After the presentation, the company organised feedback with potential customers, adjusted the project cost and individual technical solutions.

“This significantly increased the competitiveness and commercial attractiveness of the domestic single-engine aircraft, as well as reduced technical risks in its creation,” Rostec told RIA Novosti.

Recall, Military Watch Magazine earlier recognised that Russia’s fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet is significantly superior to its US and Chinese counterparts in firepower. One of the main advantages of the Russian aircraft is the ability to use the R-37M missile, which has shown high efficiency in the SAO. It enables the Su-57 to engage air targets at a distance twice as long as its American and Chinese counterparts. Another outstanding quality of the Russian fighter jet is the high variety and range of air-to-ground missiles it uses.