Trump's potential role in saving Russia's troubled su‑57 program
Russians struggling with issues in the production of the Su-57 are hopeful about potential changes in the White House. According to The Telegraph, Donald Trump could save the most advanced Russian fighter jet.
In September of this year, a report by analysts from the Frontelligence Insight group was released. It indicated that Russians, who initially coped well with Western sanctions, are feeling their consequences more after over 1,000 days of war in Ukraine. This is particularly true for producing advanced equipment that requires sophisticated electronics. In the case of the Su-57, the situation has become so serious that the production of this fighter jet could soon be at risk.
Trump could save the Russian Su-57 fighter jet
According to "The Telegraph," the problems faced by the Russians could diminish if Donald Trump assumes office as President of the United States. He could lift some of the sanctions he openly criticized during his election campaign.
Although Russians often find ways to bypass these sanctions, they must purchase necessary components through complex routes and intermediaries, which slows down and increases the cost of their weapons production.
Foreign sanctions targeting UAC (United Aircraft Corporation) and similar Russian weapons manufacturers may be ineffective. However, according to a report by The Telegraph, they are sufficiently impactful to hinder the modernization of the Russian air force.
Russia's modern fighter jet
The Su-57 is a fifth-generation Russian fighter jet. It is described as the most advanced combat aircraft of the Russians and has recently started appearing over Ukraine. This machine can move up to approximately 2,450 km/h and operate at altitudes up to 20,000 metres. From the Ukrainians' perspective, an important feature of the Su-57 is its ability to carry a dangerous arsenal, including upgraded Kh-58 missiles that can reach speeds of up to 4,300 km/h after launch and provide a range of up to 245 kilometres.
The situation with the production of the Su-57 could worsen even more because, at the end of October, the U.S. government imposed new sanctions on 400 entities based in China and India, among other countries. It was established that they were supplying Russia with goods subject to sanctions. Systematically "eliminating" intermediaries has compounded the difficulties and expenses for the Russians. For this reason, in "The Telegraph's" assessment, the decisions of the new President of the United States will be extremely important.
