Russia's Su-57 Is Supposed To Challenge Western 5th-Gen Fighters -- So Why Is Its Fleet So Small?

Russia’s Su-57 is meant to compete with Western fifth-generation fighters, but its small fleet size raises questions about how export-focused the program has been. The article notes the Su-57 entered service in 2020 and was designed with export in mind, unlike some other major stealth fighters whose circumstances limited sales. Still, the only confirmed export customer cited is Algeria, reportedly ordering 14 aircraft; by early 2026, estimates suggested Algeria had delivered two, while Russia’s Air Force had between 20 and 30 Su-57s. Russia has ordered 76 units, targeted for delivery by 2027/2028, though likely delayed. The piece also compares the Su-57’s sales to past export struggles seen with the MiG-35 and the Su-75 Checkmate.