What You Need to Know: Western sanctions have complicated Russia's production of its fifth-generation Su-57 stealth fighter jet by restricting access to high-tech components. Despite these challenges, Russia has found ways to circumvent sanctions, notably by acquiring dual-use civilian goods that can serve military purposes.

-Russian manufacturers like Mikropribor have obtained equipment such as the Siemens KLE 360 CNC machine, essential for precision manufacturing of advanced aircraft.

-While only about 32 Su-57s have been built, Russia continues efforts to enhance its capabilities. The jet's limited use in the ongoing conflict contrasts with its prominent appearance in popular culture, such as in the latest "Top Gun" film.

Sanctions vs. Innovation: Russia's Quest to Advance the Su-57 Fighter Jet

Western sanctions against Russia, following Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, have complicated the production of Russian weaponry, including the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter. Yet, Russia has proven resourceful, working around the sanctions to access high-tech equipment.

One intelligence report indicated that Mikropribor, a Russian manufacturer involved in the development of the Su-57, had “acquired equipment for automated workstations to aid in the calibration and laboratory testing of specialized devices like the MPPU-50,” this plays a role in the jet’s communications and radar systems, Bokyo Nikolov reported. 

While the MPPU-50 is not installed on the aircraft, the MPPU-50 is crucial for testing communications and radar systems, which enable the Su-57 to operate with the situational awareness befitting of a fifth-generation fighter.

The Russians are also believed to have accessed a German-made Siemens KLE 360 CNC on a contract that was signed in July 2022, after the invasion commenced, and after sanctions were implemented. The KLE 360 is a machine automation tool that is vital to the precise manufacture of something with pinpoint specifications, like a fifth-generation fighter, for example.

Building the Su-57 Felon

The Su-57 is Russia’s fifth-generation fighter. The Su-57 is understood to be advanced; perhaps not as advanced as American counterparts like the F-22 Raptor, but still featuring stealth technology, supercruise, and a sophisticated weapons control system. “[The Su-57] enhances Russia’s combat capabilities but also bolsters its geopolitical influence,” Nikolov wrote. “With its design geared towards air combat, ground target engagement, and intelligence gathering.”

Yet, only about thirty-two Su-57s have been built. Sanctions have made the procurement of modern avionics and radar systems, which incorporate high-tech components, more difficult.  

Stepping Around Sanctions

One method by which the Russians have been able to sidestep Western sanctions is finding dual-use goods. Dual-use goods are products with a civilian application, that can also have a military application. Essentially, dual-use goods are sold on the civilian market but can be used for military production. 

The Siemens KLE 360 CNC is one prime example of a dual-use good. The machine is commonly found in automotive and medical settings, yet is vital for the production of a fighter aircraft.

However, “producing the Su-57 goes beyond just calibration machines and CNC equipment, Nikolov wrote. “It demands a range of high-tech components, such as radar systems and infrared sensors for tracking targets. Advanced composite materials are also essential to reduce weight and enhance the aircraft’s stealth capabilities.”

The West could choose to strengthen sanctions, further complicating Russia’s abilities to make their fifth-generation fighter. Russia’s production struggles are likely to continue, which makes it unlikely that the Su-57 will have a significant impact on the Russo-Ukraine War.

While the Su-57 may only be used sparingly in the ongoing conflict, the jet can be seen, albeit as a CGI rendition, in the new Top Gun film. During the scene’s finale, Tom Cruise and Miles Teller battle two Su-57s from the seats of an F-14 Tomcat. The scene is implausible but highly enjoyable.

About the Author: Harrison Kass 

Harrison Kass is a defense and national security writer with over 1,000 total pieces on issues involving global affairs. An attorney, pilot, guitarist, and minor pro hockey player, Harrison joined the US Air Force as a Pilot Trainee but was medically discharged. Harrison holds a BA from Lake Forest College, a JD from the University of Oregon, and an MA from New York University. Harrison listens to Dokken.

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