Blueprint

DEFENCE

Checkmate makes its move

Russia’s Rostec has revealed a new concept for a Sukhoi single-engined stealth fighter at this year’s MAKS air show outside Moscow. Teased under the ‘Checkmate’ tagline, a full-size mock-up of the Light Tactical Aircraft (LTA) was revealed at the show and is apparently aimed at attracting export partners with its $30m price tag as a fifth-generation successor to the MiG-21, as well as the Russian Aerospace Forces. First flight is set for 2023, with production examples ready by 2026 and potentially 300 to be produced, according to UAC.

Butterfly tail

The aircraft features a butterfly tail of integrated vertical rudders and horizontal stabilisers, similar to the Northrop YF-23 and McDonnell Douglas/BAe JAST studies.

Single engine

The Checkmate is reported to be powered by a single NPO Saturn Izdeliye 30 engine, similar to those being developed for the Sukhoi Su-57. Short take-off capabilities and thrust vectoring have also been reported.

Specifications

Max speed Mach 1.8+
Range 1,860nm
Combat radius 930nm
Payload 15,000lb
Max G 8G

AI and sensors

Rostec says that the LTA Checkmate will incorporate advanced AI and avionics, while the traditional cockpit-mounted EO/ IR sensor ball is joined by a faceted ventral F-35-style ETOS (electro-optical targeting system) window. An AESA radar is fitted. The aircraft will also be able to be modified into an uncrewed UCAV version and will feature an automated logistics system known as Matreshka.

DSI intake

The fighter features a wrapunder chin DSI (diverterless supersonic inlet) suitable for Mach 1+ flight while maintaining low-observability.

Weapon bays

Checkmate features two side-mounted weapon bays for short-range missiles and a central weapons bay able to carry up to three larger weapons, such as the R-73/ RVV-BD ‘AWACS-killer’ or mini-cruise missiles.