Russian defense conglomerate prepares to produce the first Checkmate fighters after receiving feedback from potential customers.
"A number of changes have been made to the Checkmate light fighter project, which has led to a change in the date of the first flight," Russian defense conglomerate Rostec said on November 12. Rostec said last year that the prototype Checkmate fighter was expected to make its first flight in 2023, but that target is unlikely to be met.
Rostec said that preparations for the creation of the first Checkmate prototypes are still underway and design documentation has been transferred to the factory.
Russian officials said many potential customers provided feedback after the Checkmate fighter's debut in 2021, helping the manufacturer adjust the project's costs and technological solutions.
“This significantly increases the aircraft's competitiveness and attractiveness, while minimizing technical problems during its development,” Rostec said.
The Checkmate fighter debuted at the MAKS exhibition in July 2021. Photo: Reuters
The first prototype of the Checkmate stealth fighter was unveiled at the MAKS 2021 air show in the Russian capital Moscow, based on the reconfigured equipment and engines of the Su-57 stealth fighter.
Manufacturer Sukhoi plans to build several prototypes to test and refine the design in 2024-2025, with finished aircraft expected to be delivered in 2026-2027.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Borisov said at the time that the fighter jet was aimed at potential customers such as India and African countries, with an estimated demand of at least 300 aircraft in the coming years. The price of the Checkmate fighter is about 30 million USD, but this seems to be the cost of the aircraft alone, not including weapons and after-sales services.
Rostec said Checkmate is likely to attract many customers thanks to its low operating costs, as well as after-sales support and a secure supply chain in conditions of poor infrastructure in many countries. This is different from current stealth fighters, which require complex maintenance procedures and technical infrastructure.
Vu Anh (According to RIA Novosti )
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