Russia’s SU-57 at Zhuhai: Applause, Admiration, but Few Buyers

The Zhuhai Airshow, often regarded as the Asian equivalent of the Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, concluded this Sunday, November 17, in southern China. This major event in the aerospace industry showcased an array of innovations, including a first-time presentation of China’s new stealth fighter jet. However, amidst the backdrop of the war in Ukraine, it was Russia’s presence that garnered significant attention. The event provided Moscow with a rare platform to maintain visibility in the global arms market despite international sanctions.

A Rare Showcase for Russia

For Moscow, the Zhuhai Airshow represented a critical opportunity. Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, international sanctions have significantly curtailed Russia’s access to global aviation fairs such as Le Bourget, Farnborough, and Singapore. Apart from its own event in Moscow, Russia has struggled to promote its military hardware to the world.

At Zhuhai, Russia seized the chance to spotlight its fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Sukhoi SU-57. The jet was prominently displayed at the heart of the exhibition, drawing attention from Asian, African, and European delegations. The highlight of Russia’s participation came on Tuesday when the SU-57 took to the Chinese skies in a much-anticipated demonstration, earning admiration from officials and applause from thousands of spectators.

Captivating the Chinese Audience

The Chinese audience, receptive to the deepening military cooperation between Beijing and Moscow, warmly welcomed the Russian presence. The SU-57 attracted a steady stream of visitors eager to snap photos of the aircraft and pose for selfies with Russian military personnel. A young attendee remarked that Ukraine’s ongoing conflict was not a focal point for the day, adding that Russia is seen primarily as a strategic ally and military partner of China.

Few Buyers but Growing Interest

Despite the enthusiastic reception, the airshow’s commercial outcomes remain uncertain for Moscow. Russian officials expressed hope that Zhuhai could mark the start of the SU-57’s export journey. However, no concrete deals have been announced, and potential buyers remain elusive. Nations such as Iran, North Korea, and Algeria have been mentioned as possible clients, but no official confirmations have surfaced.

A significant hurdle for the SU-57 is the lack of transparency surrounding its combat capabilities. Its performance remains largely unproven, with only one operational sortie reportedly linked to the war in Ukraine. This uncertainty dampens enthusiasm among potential buyers, who are reluctant to invest in an aircraft with limited verifiable data on reliability and effectiveness.

A Strategic Alliance Between Beijing and Moscow

Beyond commercial implications, the Zhuhai Airshow underscored the deepening strategic alliance between China and Russia. This growing partnership is reflected in increasing military and technological exchanges. By hosting and highlighting Russian military advancements, Beijing appears intent on supporting Moscow’s efforts to maintain a foothold in the global arms market.

In summary, while the immediate commercial gains for Russia remain unclear, the symbolic significance of the Zhuhai Airshow is undeniable. For Beijing, the event demonstrated a commitment to bolstering its ally. For Moscow, it provided a rare chance to counter isolation by showcasing its military prowess to an international audience.

Although major deals have yet to materialize, the SU-57 has captured the admiration of the Chinese public, affirming Russia’s ongoing influence and appeal in the world of military aviation.