The third advanced tactical frontline fighter (PAK FA) performed its first flight recently in Komsomolsk-on-Amur KnAAPO. The jet was piloted by test pilot Sergey Bogdan. The jet spent about an hour in the air and landed at KnAAPO runway after successful and complete fulfillment of the flight assignment. Aircraft stability and power plant performance were checked during flight, the pilot noting reliability of all systems and equipment.

PAK FA performed its maiden flight on January 29, 2010, in Komsomolsk-on-Amur. In the beginning of March 2011, the second fighter took into the skies. Both aircraft participated in ground and flight test trials. The aircraft was presented to the public for the first time on August 17, 2011 at MAKS-2011, International Aviation and Space Salon, in Zhukovsky. As of November 2011, PAK FA has performed more than 100 flights.

PAK FA programme includes creation of the fighter, setting up its serial production and introduction into service by the Russian Air Force. PAK FA will enhance the combat potential of the Russian Air Force, take the aviation industry to new technical levels and give momentum to scientific research development along with providing sufficient workload for all the defence industry enterprises.

PAK FA programme is a high-priority UAC military aviation programme developed by JSC “Sukhoi Company”, UAC subsidiary. It will enhance new materials and technology development and implementation, their high innovative potential allowing new generation jet creation.