Checkmate marks latest Russian move in AI-centric fighter design
A prototype of Checkmate was rolled out for display on 20 July at the MAKS-2021 aviation show in Moscow. (Photo: Sukhoi)
There was razzmatazz at MAKS-2021 as Sukhoi lifted the lid on Checkmate with the export market in mind.
To much fanfare, the new Russian fifth-generation Checkmate Light Tactical Aircraft (LTA) was unveiled on 20 July at the MAKS-2021 International Aviation and Space Salon in Moscow.
A prototype of the prospective single-engine Sukhoi aircraft was demonstrated first to Russian President Vladimir Putin and then to industry experts and journalists.
The aircraft has an aerodynamic design with a horizontal tail, an under-fuselage air intake and avionics similar to those on the Su-57.
The design of the aircraft also includes a V-shaped all-moving tailfin and a single Izdelie 30 engine (which is also in development for the Su-57) with thrust
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![UAV manufacturers flock to UK as MoD spends £270 million on Tekever drones for Ukraine]()
UAV manufacturers flock to UK as MoD spends £270 million on Tekever drones for Ukraine
On 15 September 2025, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed that Tekever would open the UK’s largest drone production facility in Swindon in 2026. The news follows a recent trend of several other manufacturers that have supplied drones to Ukraine also announcing the opening of UK facilities.
-
![Protecting the horizon]()
Protecting the horizon
Make it an unfair fight, with the EA-37B. Deny, degrade, and disrupt the enemy.
-
![Singapore P-8A buy integral to future maritime domain awareness network]()
Singapore P-8A buy integral to future maritime domain awareness network
Singapore’s acquisition of the Boeing P-8A Poseidon will be part of a maritime domain awareness network that could include unmanned aerial systems.
-
![Peru cleared for possible $3.42 billion F-16 Block 70 buy]()
Peru cleared for possible $3.42 billion F-16 Block 70 buy
The potential foreign military sale covers 12 F-16 aircraft as well as related training and equipment support, the DSCA notice said.
-
![DSEI 2025: The fighter market shift to Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T)]()
DSEI 2025: The fighter market shift to Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T)
Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) capabilities is set to become a market differentiator for fighter aircraft, allowing 4.5-5th generation platforms to remain relevant to the battlefield.
