Russia has reportedly revealed a new two-seat version of its Su-57 stealth fighter, known as the Su-57D, marking a major step in Moscow’s effort to expand the aircraft’s role beyond traditional fighter missions.

According to Jane’s, Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation announced that the twin-seat Su-57D made its maiden flight on 19 May 2026. The extra cockpit could allow a second crew member to manage complex systems, support strike coordination, handle electronic warfare tasks, or control drones during high-pressure missions.

Military analysts say this design could turn the aircraft into more than a fighter jet. It may function as an airborne command platform, coordinating unmanned aircraft, missiles, and other combat ᴀssets in networked operations.

✈️ The move also reflects a wider global trend: future air combat may rely less on a single pilot acting alone, and more on crewed aircraft working together with drones, sensors, and long-range weapons.

If Russia can move the Su-57D from testing into reliable production, it could become one of the most closely watched developments in the next generation of aerial warfare.