RuAviation

Russia plans to showcase over thirty aerospace and rotorcraft platforms, alongside advanced aviation gas turbine engines, at the International Aerospace Exhibition, Dubai Airshow 2025 (November 17-21). Key participants include Russia’s leading defense and aerospace holdings: the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), Russian Helicopters, the United Engine Corporation (UEC), Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies (KRET), and High Precision Systems.

The modernized Yak-130M combat trainer features a new weapon suite, updated avionics, and expanded operational capabilities for combat scenarios. This aircraft is designed to train pilots transitioning to fourth and fifth-generation fighters, while also retaining the ability to perform light attack missions. The modernization package ensures reliable operation in challenging harsh environments and during nighttime missions.

Russian Helicopters will present the “Ansat-M” light utility helicopter (manufactured by the Kazan Helicopter Plant). This version is equipped with the new VK-650V turboshaft engine, developed by UEC-Klimov in St. Petersburg. The updated rotorcraft incorporates a redesigned fuselage, an improved flight control system, and modernized onboard systems. Its spacious cabin expands the helicopter’s utility across civil and specialized segments, including air ambulance (medevac) and transport operations in dense urban environments.

The static display will feature the Il-76MD-90A(E) military transport aircraft and the Ka-32A11M transport helicopter. Additionally, visitors will view advanced engine models, specifically the Product 177C (a core component of Russia’s advanced fighter programs), air defense systems, navigation equipment, and various munitions—ranging from guided and unguided missiles to specialized concrete-piercing aerial bombs.

The centerpiece of Russia’s participation will be the flight demonstrations of the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter and the Ka-52 reconnaissance/attack helicopter. Prior to the ferry flight to the UAE, the prototype (side number 509) conducted training flights at Zhukovsky (Russia’s primary flight test center). During one of these flights, the Su-57’s forward internal weapons bay was demonstrated for the first time. This bay can accommodate R-77M, R-37M, or Kh-69 missiles. Mockups of the Kh-58UShK anti-radiation missile (ARM) were installed in the bay. This missile boasts a range of 250 km (approximately 155 miles), which can be extended to 300–350 km (186–217 miles) through an aeroballistic modification.

Mockups of the R-74M2 short-range air-to-air missile (AAM) were mounted on the Su-57’s external hardpoints. The aircraft performed advanced super-maneuverability elements, including the controlled flat spin and complex aerobatic figures. Test Pilot Sergey Bogdan, a Hero of Russia from the Sukhoi Design Bureau (OKB), piloted the demonstration.

For the Russian aerospace industry, participation in the Dubai Airshow serves as a crucial tool for promoting export solutions and confirms the readiness of domestic companies for a sustained market presence in the Middle Eastern market. Regional interest is rapidly growing for multi-role platforms capable of handling both training and combat requirements.