Images circulating on Russian social media appear to show the first two-seat variant of the Sukhoi Su-57, potentially marking a significant evolution of Russia\u2019s stealth fighter programme toward training, manned-unmanned teaming and future export markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The aircraft, reportedly designated the Su-57D, was first shown in an image published by the Russian Telegram channel Fighterbomber<\/a><\/strong><\/span>, an account widely believed to have links to the Russian Aerospace Forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The image appears to show the aircraft conducting taxi testing with a visibly enlarged cockpit section and extended canopy accommodating a second crew member seated behind the pilot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While Russian authorities have not officially confirmed the aircraft\u2019s designation or role, the emergence of a two-seat Su-57 has long been anticipated by defence analysts.<\/p>\n\n\n The aircraft shown in the images features a cockpit arrangement similar to that of the Sukhoi Su-30, with the rear crew member positioned at a raised elevation behind the pilot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The emergence of the aircraft follows recent sightings of China\u2019s twin-seat Chengdu J-20S, <\/a><\/span><\/strong>highlighting growing interest among major powers in adapting fifth-generation fighters for multi-crew operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With the unveiling of the two-seat variant of the Su-57- aka the Su-57D (?) – it appears that, following the J-20S (AS), there is now a second 5th-generation aircraft available in a two-seat configuration. Two-seat Su-57D prototype appears during taxi testing in Russia<\/h2>\n\n\n
1. pic.twitter.com\/JgThpiEdfA<\/a><\/p>— @Rupprecht_A (@RupprechtDeino) May 17, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>