Insane Engineering of the New Su-57 Izdelie 30 Engine Explained

Описание: The Sukhoi Su-57 "Felon" is Russia's answer to Western fifth-generation fighters. While its initial production models have been flying with an interim engine, the development of a truly fifth-generation powerplant, known as Izdelie 30 (Product 30), manufactured by UEC-Saturn, is critical for the Su-57 to achieve its full design potential and be considered a "true" 5th generation fighter.

The Current (Interim) Engine: AL-41F1 (Product 117)

Before delving into Izdelie 30, it's important to understand what the Su-57 is currently using. Early and initial production Su-57s are powered by two Saturn AL-41F1 engines. This engine is an advanced derivative of the AL-31F engine found in the Su-27 family, and a direct evolution of the AL-41F1S (Product 117S) used in the Su-35S.

Performance (AL-41F1):

Dry Thrust: Approximately 93.1 kN (20,950 lbf)

Afterburning Thrust: Approximately 147 kN (33,000 lbf)

Features a FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) system and 3D thrust vectoring nozzles.

Limitations: While powerful, the AL-41F1 falls short of true fifth-generation requirements, particularly in sustained supercruise capability (supersonic flight without afterburner) and specific fuel consumption, which impacts range and operational cost. It also has a larger radar cross-section (RCS) from certain angles compared to a purpose-built 5th-gen engine.


The New and Upgraded Engine: Izdelie 30 (Product 30)

The Izdelie 30 is the definitive, next-generation engine specifically designed for the Su-57, and its integration is seen as the final step in solidifying the Su-57's 5th-generation status. Testing of this engine began in December 2017 with prototypes installed on the Su-57.

New Features of Izdelie 30:

1. Greatly Increased Thrust: Izdelie 30 offers substantially more thrust than the AL-41F1, both dry and with afterburner. This translates directly into superior acceleration, climb rate, and overall maneuverability. Initial estimates suggest a boost of 15-20% over the AL-41F1.

Estimated Dry Thrust: ~107-110 kN (24,000-24,700 lbf)

Estimated Afterburning Thrust: ~176-196 kN (39,500-44,000 lbf)

2. True Supercruise Capability: This is arguably the most critical new feature. Izdelie 30 is designed to allow the Su-57 to sustain supersonic speeds (typically Mach 1.5-1.8) without engaging the fuel-guzzling afterburner. This significantly improves combat radius, endurance, and allows the aircraft to engage and disengage targets more rapidly.

3. Improved Fuel Efficiency (Lower Specific Fuel Consumption):** Through advanced aerodynamics, new materials, and a higher bypass ratio, Izdelie 30 achieves significantly better specific fuel consumption. This directly increases the aircraft's range and loiter time, reducing reliance on aerial refueling.

4. Advanced Materials and Manufacturing: The engine incorporates new generation composite materials, ceramic matrix composites (CMCs), and advanced alloys capable of withstanding higher temperatures and stresses. This contributes to lighter weight, increased durability, and greater reliability.

5. Reduced Radar Cross-Section (RCS): While exact details are classified, Izdelie 30 is designed with stealth in mind. This likely includes:

Sawtooth patterns on the engine nozzle and access panels to disrupt radar waves.
Radar-absorbent materials (RAM) incorporated into internal and external components.

S-duct air intakes on the Su-57 itself help mask the front-on view of the engine fan, a major radar reflector. The engine's design contributes to the overall low observable characteristics.

6. Lower Infrared (IR) Signature: New combustion chamber designs and potentially advanced cooling systems help to reduce the heat signature of the exhaust plume, making the aircraft harder to detect by IR-guided missiles.

7. Advanced FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control): A more sophisticated digital control system provides precise management of engine parameters, optimizing performance across the flight envelope, improving reliability, and facilitating seamless integration with the aircraft's avionics.

8. Modular Construction: Easier maintenance, faster repairs, and potentially lower lifetime costs due to its modular design.

9. Two-Dimensional (2D) or even Improved 3D Thrust Vectoring Nozzle: While AL-41F1 has 3D TVC, Izdelie 30 is expected to have an even more refined and potentially lighter thrust vectoring system, further enhancing maneuverability at both high and low speeds.

Some sources speculate about a 2D nozzle for potential stealth benefits, but 3D is more probable for agility.

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