Aircraft
Russia Deploys Su-57s to Syria
Four development aircraft have been sent to the warzone for evaluation under combat conditions
Su-57 number 052 is one of the four aircraft that have been deployed to Syria. (Photo: Vladimir Karnozov)
Su-57 number 052 is one of the four aircraft that have been deployed to Syria. (Photo: Vladimir Karnozov)

The Russian Air and Space Force (VKS) deployed four Sukhoi Su-57 fifth-generation fighters, developed under the PAK-FA (Perspective Aviation Complex of the Frontal Aviation) program, to the Khmeimeem AFB in Latakia. The deployment came shortly before the Syrian army launched a major offensive in Ghuta, the last remaining rebel-held stronghold in the Damascus countryside. One pair arrived on February 21 and the second on February 23, the last move timed to coincide with the centennial anniversary of the Red Army.