On Tuesday, the Russian government technological corporation "Rostec" unveiled the new fifth-generation fighter jet Checkmate "كش ملك". It was stated, "This is a lightweight fifth-generation fighter. There are similar fighters in the world, such as the F-35, Gripen, and Rafale, but we have taken on the task of providing a very cost-effective aircraft." He added, "We have a price, which I hope will range from 25 to 30 million dollars, while foreign aircraft of this type range from 60 to 90 million dollars."
Chemezov pointed out that "the new Russian fighter will be capable of reaching speeds of up to 1,900 km/h, with a range of about 3,000 kilometers." Regarding other specifications, he said, "the new Russian fighter will be armed with guided and unguided missiles, as well as aerial bombs." He also added, "Our aircraft can carry a large payload, with the ability to carry more than 7 tons, which includes various types of weapons such as missiles, guided missiles, aerial bombs, and small arms, as it will also be equipped with a machine gun."
Chemezov expected that the Checkmate fighter would enter service between 2026 and 2027. He noted that the Checkmate fighter will use the same engine as the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter. He added, "Our aircraft is different in that it can accommodate a larger payload - it can carry more than 7 tons, including various types of weapons like missiles, guided missiles, aerial bombs, and small arms, along with a machine gun."
Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his tour of the "MAKS 2021" international air show, was briefed on the new fighter and learned about its features. According to available information, the aircraft will be produced in three models: with a crew of one pilot, with a pilot and navigator, or unmanned, depending on the tasks assigned to each model of this aircraft.
