Russia develops S-70 Okhotnik drone to enhance Su-57 capabilities
- The S-70 Okhotnik UAV, also known as the Hunter-B, is designed to operate alongside Russia's Su-57 fighter jet.
- This stealth drone is engineered with advanced features and has undergone testing, achieving high speeds.
- The success and timely introduction of the S-70 remain uncertain due to Russia's current military production challenges.
Russia is advancing its military technology by developing the S-70 Okhotnik stealth attack unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), designed to complement the Su-57 fighter jet. This project, first conceptualized in 2010, exemplifies Russia's ambitions to create competitive military technology amidst global defense advancements. The S-70, also known as the 'Hunter-B,' was revealed in 2017 with a flying wing configuration and has since undergone testing, reportedly achieving speeds exceeding 2,000 km/h. The Okhotnik is engineered with stealth characteristics, including radar-absorbent materials that reduce its radar cross-section. These features are intended to allow the UAV to operate effectively in contested environments where it is challenging to detect. Reports suggest that the UAV is powered by the same engine as the Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jet, further indicating a close relationship between the two platforms in operational capabilities. Despite its impressive specifications, the successful deployment of the S-70 remains uncertain. Speculations abound regarding Russia's ability to produce and integrate this drone into active service given the country's existing constraints, particularly amid ongoing military engagements. Initial plans indicated that the Okhotnik drones would be integrated with Su-57 squadrons to enhance combat effectiveness, enabling these platforms to work collaboratively in various formations. The introduction of the S-70 alongside the Su-57 raises questions about Russia's military strategy and the intended threat level it aims to project globally. While the drone has been touted for its advanced features, its actual operational effectiveness in real-world combat environments will only be ascertainable once it is fully fielded. This development underscores the significant strides Russia is making in unmanned aerial vehicle technology and its implications for the balance of military power in the region.