New sukhoi T-50 prototype joins testing program
T-50-5, the fifth 5th generation fighter test aircraft (PAK FA), arrived to M.M. Gromov Flight Research Institute’s airfield in Zhukovsky near Moscow today. The aircraft performed a ferry flight with three interim landings from UAC’s Komsomolsk-on-Amur facility where the aircraft was assembled to Zhukovsky airport.
Yury Vashchuk, Sukhoi Chief Pilot, honored test-pilot, Hero of the Russian Federation, world-class master of air sports, piloted the aircraft. T-50-5 performed well during the flight.
“All the latest improvements were implemented in this T-50-5 based on the test campaign results, but the most important is that this aircraft is almost like the serial aircraft” – stressed Alexander Davidenko – Director – Chief Designer of the PAK PMI program, Sukhoi.
“The preliminary test campaign will be completed before the end of the year. In Q1 2014 we will start the state tests of the aircraft, the first stage of which we are planning to complete in 2015. First serial production aircraft will be delivered in 2016”, – he added.
Up to date the PAK FA test fleet has accomplished more than 400 test flights.
