Through a recently viralized satellite image, what is, to date, the first recorded visit of a Russian Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter to an Iranian Air Force base has been revealed. The presence of the Felon (the NATO designation), which is being integrated into the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS), on Iranian soil coincides with its presentation and exhibition between February 11 and 14 at Aero India 2025. This event is part of the promotional efforts carried out by United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) and Rosoboronexport, which appear to have borne fruit with the confirmation of the first sale to a foreign customer.
As reported by the specialized site The War Zone on February 24, satellite images captured by the MAXAR service leave no doubt about the presence of the Su-57 in Iran, specifically at Bandar Abbas Air Base. Among other notable details visible in the photograph, two P-3 Orion patrol aircraft—originally sold by the United States during the Shah’s era—can be seen alongside a Russian Il-76 transport aircraft.
Subsequently, a series of viralized videos provided further details, confirming that the aircraft in question is the Su-57 prototype designated T-50-4 “054 Blue.” This particular unit has been a centerpiece in the promotional efforts for the Russian stealth fighter in recent months, having participated in China’s Zhuhai Air Show last November and, more recently, at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru.
In this context, several images captured the Su-57’s participation in India, where it shared the spotlight with U.S. Air Force F-35 fighters, which were also featured in both static and flight displays at the event.
Returning to the aforementioned events, the Su-57’s presence in Iran marks the first time the aircraft has visited the country. However, as previously recorded, various Russian Armed Forces aircraft have used Iranian air bases as stopovers for operations in Syria.
It is also worth noting that the Russian fighter’s presence follows official statements made by Russian officials both last November and just a few days ago. These statements first indicated that Russia had finalized the first Su-57 sale to a new operator and, more recently, that the first aircraft deliveries would take place this year.
These claims have sparked a wave of speculation regarding the first buyer, with Algeria being a likely candidate, as hinted at by the African nation’s state television. There was also speculation that Iran could be the purchaser, though this seems unlikely at this stage, given that the country is in the process of acquiring its first Sukhoi Su-35S fighters.
Regardless of ongoing speculations, this first interaction between Iranian Air Force personnel and officials with the Russian stealth fighter should not be underestimated, considering Iran’s urgent need to replace much of its U.S.-origin combat aircraft inherited from the Shah’s era. Additionally, this event highlights the strengthening ties with Russia, particularly in the context of arms supplies to support the war effort in Ukraine.
Cover image: MAXAR.
