In what represents a significant milestone for its modernization program, the Russian Aerospace Forces have announced that they have tested the new Izdeliye 177 engine, which is intended to equip their Su-57 stealth fighters. Following the tests, its correct operation and integration with the platform were verified. The trials were carried out by United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) and United Engine Corporation (UEC), with test pilot Roman Kondratyev conducting the first flight.
Commenting on the achievement, Evgeny Marchukov—General Designer and Director of the A. Lyulka Design Bureau, part of UEC—stated: “The fifth-generation aviation engine, Product 177, is UEC’s cutting-edge development for operational-tactical aircraft. Advanced technologies and materials, together with innovative design solutions, have enabled UEC to create an engine with significantly improved performance compared to previous-generation engines. The first test flight marked the beginning of joint work with our colleagues at UAC on Su-57 flight tests with this new engine. During the flight, the new engine operated as expected and demonstrated reliable performance on the Su-57.”
Also known as “Product 177,” the new engine was specifically designed by UEC to support Russia’s fifth-generation aircraft capabilities, with its main feature being a thrust rating of 16,000 kgf with afterburner. The engine is also characterized by improved fuel efficiency compared to earlier models across all operating modes, as well as a longer service life that helps reduce maintenance-related costs.
Furthermore, currently available technical information indicates that these engines would be fully compatible not only with the Su-57, but also with aircraft powered by the AL-31F/FP engines, such as the Russian Su-30 fighters. Additionally, as can be seen in images released so far, the new engines feature serrated exhaust nozzles rather than the traditional round design. This is a notable change, as it would provide improved thrust vectoring.
It is worth recalling that the new engines were first unveiled at the Dubai Airshow, where UAC showcased various advances achieved in the modernization of Russian combat aircraft. Even at that time, a mock-up could be seen fitted with 2D thrust-vectoring nozzles, which had previously been observed during flight tests involving the Su-57 prototype designated T-50-2 “052 Blue.” Moreover, as stated by the Russian company’s delegation, the new design is intended to reduce both the radar and infrared signatures of the aircraft—an especially valuable feature for a stealth platform.
Finally, it should be noted that beyond the technical aspects outlined above, UAC has indicated that it is not only working on the development of these new engines for stealth platforms, but also on a broader program aimed at expanding their production capacity. While no specific timelines or impacts on aircraft output have been disclosed, the company stated in its official release: “This will make it possible to increase deliveries of combat aircraft to the armed forces and to actively market the Su-57 as an export variant to foreign customers. Rostec enterprises are working closely together in the production of the aircraft.”
Image credits: UAC
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