Russian Su-57 arrives in Egypt without external fuel tanks

A Russian Su-57E fighter arrived in Egypt for the El Alamein Airshow without external fuel tanks, relying instead on fuel tanks installed inside its internal weapons bays, UNIAN reports.

The aircraft flew to the airshow with one intermediate stop. According to the report, the fighter still had enough fuel upon arrival to cover approximately another 1,000 kilometres.

The Su-57E subsequently took part in a demonstration flight at the event.

Russia’s state-owned Rostec said that using internal fuel tanks allows the aircraft to extend its range without external fuel pods. External tanks increase aerodynamic drag and can also increase an aircraft’s radar signature.

The El Alamein Airshow was held from 8 to 10 September, bringing together military aircraft from several countries. The Russian Su-57E was displayed at the event alongside US and Chinese military aircraft.

By Vugar Khalilov