Russia’s Checkmate Fighter Nearing First Flight, Rostec CEO Says

Summary

The first prototype of the Su-75 Checkmate is nearing its initial flight, according to Rostec CEO Sergey Chemezov. Despite funding challenges amid Russia’s war in Ukraine, Sukhoi continues development, with expectations that the single-engine, cost-effective aircraft will meet combat requirements for air and ground targets.

Background

The Su-75, also known as Checkmate, debuted in mock-up form at the Dubai Airshow in 2021 to attract international funding. The ongoing war has complicated funding efforts, but work on the aircraft persists as resources are allocated to war production and domestic needs.

Chief Statements

“Generally, it takes 10-15 years on average to develop a combat aircraft, and we have only recently started this work. I believe that [Checkmate] will be in demand. This is a cheaper, single-engine aircraft, and I think that it will have enough weapons to meet all the requirements for destroying both aerial and ground targets.”

Chemezov did not confirm potential export customers for the Su-57 fighter, which is making its Middle Eastern debut in Dubai.

Notes

Prototype readiness is described as “almost at the stage of flight testing.”
Funding challenges are attributed to broader geopolitical and economic factors since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Author’s Summary

Rostec asserts progress on the Su-75 Checkmate despite funding hurdles, highlighting its affordability and multi-target capabilities while avoiding confirmation of export clients for the Su-57.

Aviation Week Network — 2025-11-19

Summary

Background

Chief Statements

Notes

Author’s Summary

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