Maximum Payload of F-35 Versus SU-57: A Detailed Comparison
Introduction
The F-35 Lightning II and Su-57 Felon are among the world’s most advanced fifth-generation fighter jets. They play crucial roles in modern air combat, offering stealth, speed, and advanced weaponry.
One of the most critical factors determining their versatility in combat is their payload capacity. This article explores the maximum payload of the F-35 and Su-57, their design features, armament capabilities, and performance differences.
Overview of F-35 Versus SU-57
F-35 Lightning II
The F-35, developed by Lockheed Martin, is a multirole stealth fighter adopted by several nations. Designed for air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance, the F-35 combines advanced stealth with cutting-edge avionics.
| Specification | F-35 Lightning II |
| Maximum Payload | 18,000 pounds (8,165 kg) |
| Internal Weapons Bay | 5,700 pounds (2,585 kg) |
| External Hardpoints | 12,300 pounds (5,579 kg) |
| Engine | Pratt & Whitney F135 |
| Speed | Mach 1.6 (1,200 mph / 1,930 km/h) |
| Combat Radius | 670 nautical miles |
| Stealth Features | Advanced radar-absorbing materials |
Su-57 Felon
The Su-57, developed by Sukhoi, represents Russia’s vision for a fifth-generation multirole fighter. Its design emphasizes maneuverability, speed, and versatility over stealth.
| Specification | F-35 Lightning II |
| Maximum Payload | 22,000 pounds (10,000 kg) |
| Internal Weapons Bay | 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) |
| External Hardpoints | 17,000 pounds (7,711 kg) |
| Engine | Saturn AL-41F1 or Izdeliye 30 |
| Speed | Mach 2.0 (1,550 mph / 2,490 km/h) |
| Combat Radius | 930 nautical miles |
| Stealth Features | Reduced radar signature |
Source: media.defense.gov
Payload Comparison
Payload capacity directly impacts a fighter jet’s operational effectiveness. Below is a detailed comparison of the maximum payload capabilities of the F-35 and Su-57:
| Feature | F-35 Lightning II | Su-57 Felon |
| Total Maximum Payload | 18,000 pounds (8,165 kg) | 22,000 pounds (10,000 kg) |
| Internal Payload | 5,700 pounds (2,585 kg) | 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) |
| External Payload | 12,300 pounds (5,579 kg) | 17,000 pounds (7,711 kg) |
| Number of Hardpoints | 10 | 12 |
| Primary Focus | Stealth and multirole missions | Speed, maneuverability, and payload |
Analysis of Payload Capabilities
Internal Payload
- F-35: The internal weapons bay of the F-35 is designed for stealth, reducing radar cross-section. It carries up to 5,700 pounds of precision-guided bombs and air-to-air missiles, suitable for penetrating defended airspace.
- Su-57: The Su-57’s internal payload is slightly lower at 5,000 pounds but can still accommodate a variety of missiles and guided munitions. However, it has a less advanced stealth profile compared to the F-35.
External Payload
- F-35: With 12,300 pounds on external hardpoints, the F-35 is highly versatile in missions where stealth is unnecessary, allowing for a wide range of weapons configurations.
- Su-57: The Su-57 excels in external payload capacity, with 17,000 pounds spread across 12 hardpoints. This makes it particularly effective in missions requiring heavy armament, such as ground-attack or air dominance roles.
Key Performance Factors
Stealth
- F-35: Prioritizes stealth with its internal payload configuration, making it nearly invisible to enemy radar when fully optimized for stealth missions.
- Su-57: While it employs stealth features, its design emphasizes maneuverability and payload capacity over radar evasion, making it less stealthy than the F-35.
Combat Radius
- F-35: Operates within a combat radius of 670 nautical miles, offering strong multirole capabilities for medium-range missions.
- Su-57: Boasts a greater combat radius of 930 nautical miles, allowing it to cover more ground in a single mission.
Source: defencetalk.com
Mission Scenarios
F-35 Lightning II
- Primary Missions:
- Deep penetration strikes in heavily defended airspace.
- Reconnaissance and surveillance.
- Multirole missions with air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities.
- Weaponry: Typically carries Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs), AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, and Small Diameter Bombs.
Su-57 Felon
- Primary Missions:
- Air superiority with a focus on maneuverability.
- Heavy ground-attack operations with a mix of internal and external payloads.
- Anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) roles in contested regions.
- Weaponry: Equipped with K-77M air-to-air missiles, Kh-59MK2 cruise missiles, and advanced guided bombs.
FAQs
1. Why does the Su-57 have a higher maximum payload?
Answer: The Su-57 is designed with a larger external payload capacity, prioritizing firepower and versatility over stealth. This allows it to carry heavier and more varied weaponry.
2. Which aircraft is better for stealth missions?
Answer: The F-35 is better suited for stealth missions due to its advanced radar-absorbing materials and internal payload design.
3. How do speed and maneuverability compare?
Answer: The Su-57 is faster, reaching speeds of Mach 2.0 compared to the F-35’s Mach 1.6. It also has superior maneuverability due to its thrust-vectoring capabilities.
4. What roles do these aircraft typically play?
Answer:
- F-35: Multirole missions, including air-to-ground strikes and intelligence gathering.
- Su-57: Air dominance and heavy payload ground-attack missions.
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Conclusion
The F-35 and Su-57 are both formidable fifth-generation fighter jets with unique strengths. The Su-57 excels in payload capacity and range, making it ideal for missions requiring heavy armament or extended reach.
On the other hand, the F-35’s stealth and multirole capabilities give it an edge in modern warfare scenarios where radar evasion is critical. Ultimately, the choice between these aircraft depends on mission priorities and operational requirements.
