Despite being Russia’s most advanced fighter, the Su-57 has contributed little to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.Chinese state media
INDO-PACIFIC
China’s Stealth Jets Mock U.S. Aircraft as Russian Su-57 Disappoints at 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition
The Russian Aerospace Force's most advanced jet fighter, the Sukhoi Su-57, was the star of the show in China for all the wrong reasons.
The Sukhoi Su-57 arrived in China on November 4 ahead of the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition (CIAAE), which will begin on November 12 near Zhuhai in Guangdong Province. The Russian fighter was seen up close by Chinese citizens and media, and it began receiving ridicule for obvious design flaws in the stealth panels and screw configurations. Noticeable gaps in the panels on the aircraft's underbelly were apparent, as observed via TikTok. The screw configurations were also visible, featuring a variety of head styles, including Phillips, flathead, and hex. Gaps in panels are a significant issue for stealth aircraft, as any flaws in panel alignment can increase radar cross-section and compromise stealth capabilities.
Still image of Su-57 panels showing significant gaps.Alex Hollings Via TikTok