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Fact check: The SU-57 is not a true stealth aircraft.
1. Summary of the results
The question of whether the Su-57 is a "true" stealth aircraft is more complex than a simple yes/no answer. While the aircraft does incorporate stealth features and was designed with stealth capabilities in mind [1], its effectiveness in this regard is significantly lower than other 5th generation fighters. Technical measurements show its radar cross-section is approximately 0.3 m², compared to the F-22's 0.001 m² [2], making it detectable at ranges 6-10 times greater than US stealth fighters [3].
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
Several important contextual points need to be considered:
- Stealth exists on a spectrum rather than as a binary characteristic [4]
- The Su-57's design philosophy prioritizes maneuverability over complete stealth [5]
- Specific design compromises include:
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The original statement's absolutist stance ("not a true stealth aircraft") oversimplifies a complex technical reality. Different parties have vested interests in how this aircraft is perceived:
- Russian military interests: Sources emphasizing the Su-57's stealth capabilities support Russia's claim to having a competitive 5th generation fighter [6]
- Western military analysts: Experts like Harry Kazianis explicitly downplay the Su-57's capabilities in comparison to Western aircraft [7], which could reflect Western military industrial interests
- Defense contractors: Companies producing competing aircraft (F-22, F-35) benefit from emphasizing the Su-57's limitations
The most accurate characterization would be that the Su-57 is a stealth aircraft with significant limitations, ranking last in stealth capabilities among its 5th generation counterparts [4].