Russia develops unusual way to control drones involving fighter jets
Photo: Russia has come up with an unusual method for controlling drones (Russian media)
Russia has developed the Su-57D two-seat fighter jet, which includes a seat for a drone operator. A prototype of this aircraft is currently undergoing flight tests, according to the Rostec Corporation.
The two-seat fighter took to the skies for the first time in May of this year. It is reported that the Su-57D is intended to fulfill two main tasks: practicing special flight modes for training purposes and implementing sixth-generation technologies.
The presence of a second cockpit reportedly allows the fighter to be used as an airborne command post for drones.
According to the developers, this is important for controlling swarm and group systems. In addition, combat artificial intelligence will be tested using the two-seat variant.
Russian fighter jet
The Su-57 is a Russian fifth-generation multi-role fighter jet developed by Sukhoi. It made its maiden flight in 2010, and serial production began only several years later due to delays in the program.
The aircraft is designed to gain air superiority and strike ground and sea targets. Russia claims that the Su-57 allegedly features stealth technology, modern avionics, and is capable of deploying a wide range of guided weapons.
At the same time, Western experts have repeatedly questioned the actual level of its stealth capabilities and the pace of production.
Ukrainian troops recently destroyed a Russian MiG-29 fighter jet right at an airfield in the Kursk region. In addition, a Pantsir-S1 anti-aircraft missile and gun system was also hit.
Earlier, special forces from the Ukrainian National Guard's Omega Special Operations Center destroyed a Russian Su-24M bomber at the Saky military airfield in the temporarily occupied Crimea.
