Introduction

The Sukhoi Su-57, F-22 Raptor, and F-35 Lightning II are among the most advanced and formidable aircraft in the world. Each has its unique strengths and limitations, making them suitable for different roles in modern warfare. This article explores the capabilities of these aircraft, focusing on their speed and maneuverability, with the aim of determining which is the fastest and most capable in various scenarios.

The Speed Comparison

When comparing the speed of the Sukhoi Su-57, F-22 Raptor, and F-35 Lightning II, we must examine their theoretical and practical performance limits. The F-22 Raptor, renowned for its high-speed capabilities, can reach speeds of up to Mach 2.25 in its most efficient state. This is well above the speed the Su-57 can achieve with its AL41F1 engine, which maxes out at Mach 2. The Su-57, on the other hand, can maintain supersonic speeds at ranges nearly double that of the F-22, extending its operational reach.

Su-57's Supersonic Range

The Su-57 has a remarkable supersonic range of nearly 2,000 kilometers, whereas the F-22 Raptor has a supersonic range of approximately 1,100 kilometers. This gives the Su-57 a significant advantage in terms of operational flexibility and endurance. However, it is worth noting that the Su-57 engines consume a considerable amount of fuel to achieve and maintain supersonic speeds, a trait it shares with many supersonic aircraft.

Super Cruise Performance

At supercruise speeds, which are sustained subsonic speeds, the F-22 Raptor can maintain a speed of Mach 1.8, whereas the Su-57 can only achieve Mach 1.3. This disparity in supercruise speeds is crucial for maintaining high-speed persistence in various mission scenarios. The F-22 Raptor's superior supercruise performance means it can carry out prolonged missions at high speeds, such as long-range combat operations, search missions, or interception tasks.

Operational Flexibility and Multi-Role Capabilities

While discussing the speed of these aircraft, it is essential to consider their multi-role capabilities. The F-22 Raptor, initially designed as a stealth multi-role fighter, is much less capable in air-to-ground roles compared to other aircraft in its class. Its stealthy nature is crucial for low-observable missions, but it sacrifices some of its stealth to perform air-to-ground missions, which can compromise its overall effectiveness in those scenarios.

Conversely, the Su-57 is designed to excel as a multi-role fighter. It is capable of carrying a wide array of weapons and sensors, making it versatile in both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles. This versatility is a significant advantage, especially in complex, multi-domain warfare environments.

The Future of Aerial Superiority

As technology evolves, the performance of these aircraft continues to advance. The F-22 Raptor is expected to be replaced by the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter, which is set to be a sixth-generation fighter with advanced stealth and sortie capabilities. The SU-57, in its current and planned upgrade versions, faces stiff competition from NGAD. Even with an upgraded engine, the SU-57 would still be a fourth and a half-generation fighter, substantially outclassed by the upcoming NGAD.

The upgraded engine for the Su-57, the Saturn Izdeliye 30, is expected to significantly enhance its performance, potentially giving it a slight edge over the F-22. However, this upgrade is not enough to counter the capabilities of the NGAD, which is still in its developmental stages. The F-35 Lightning II, with its range of Mach 1.6 for supercruise and a maximum speed of Mach 1.2, might be outperformed by the upgraded Su-57 in some scenarios, but its multi-role capabilities make it a formidable opponent in its own right.

Conclusion

The speed and capabilities of the Sukhoi Su-57, F-22 Raptor, and F-35 Lightning II are influenced by a myriad of factors, including engine performance, design limitations, and mission requirements. While the F-22 Raptor boasts exceptional speed and supercruise performance, the Su-57 offers unparalleled range and versatility, making it a formidable asset in air-to-air and air-to-ground operations.

As new fighters like the NGAD emerge, the future of aerial superiority will be determined by a combination of advanced technologies, comprehensive design, and strategic deployment. The ongoing advancements in aerospace engineering ensure that these aircraft continue to evolve, maintaining the complex balance of power in modern warfare.