Russia to begin trials of five 5th generation fighters in March 2013

The state trials of five 5th generation fighters (advanced airborne complex of the frontline aviation) will begin at a base of the flight experimental centre in Akhtubinsk in March 2013, Chief Commander of the Russian Air Force Lieut. Gen. Viktor Bondarev told reporters on Sunday, Itar-Tass reports.

“The airplanes of the prospective airborne complex of the frontline aviation are performing successfully the program of flight trials. Three fighters are taking the trials at the airfield in the Moscow regional town Zhukovsky, the fourth pilot fighter is being tested at the plant, the fifth fighter is about to be turned out and is passing the acceptance inspection. In March these five fighters will arrive in Akhtubinsk, where their state flight trials will begin. All other fighters will be dispatched there directly from the plant. By the end of 2013 eight prospective fighters T-50 will be accepted in Akhtubinsk,” Viktor Bondarev said.

The trials of the advanced fighters will end within 2-2.5 years, the chief commander of the Russian Air Force said. In 2015 or the beginning of 2016 the construction of the fighters T-50 will become serial, the fighters will be put into service of the aviation formations.

The commander also noted that that the design works to develop a strategic missile-carrying bomber of new generation (advanced airborne complex of long-range aviation) will end by 2017-2018.

“Much work has been done to develop the advanced airborne complex of long-range aviation. The warplane is very serious and will ensure security of the country for many years to come, there we cannot make any errors. I believe that before 2017-2018 we will complete the creation of an advanced bomber and it will be ready for serial production,” Viktor Bondarev said.