A recent incident involving a Russian Su-57 fighter jet has been reported by Ukraine, suggesting a severe setback for Russia’s advanced stealth aircraft. According to Ukraine’s GUR military intelligence agency, the incident took place at the Akhtubinsk airfield in the Astrakhan region on October 29. The jet allegedly exploded during engine startup.
The Su-57 is hailed by Russia as its leading-edge stealth aircraft. It is often compared to the American F-35s and F-22s, although many Western experts question its stealth capabilities. Despite being utilized for long-range strikes in the conflict with Ukraine, analysts have criticized its performance as underwhelming. They also believe Russia is hesitant to deploy these valuable jets extensively.
Estimates from the International Institute for Strategic Studies, a British defense think tank, indicate Russia had approximately 21 Su-57 aircraft in operation by early 2026. The estimated cost per Su-57 is around $150 million, according to Ukrainian sources.
GUR highlighted potential risks with the jet’s engines, noting they might explode or undergo catastrophic destruction
if supplied with substandard jet fuel.
This is an evolving story, and further details are expected. Newsweek has reached out to the Russian Defense Ministry for comment.
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