Russia plans first flight of Su-75 Checkmate light stealth fighter in 2026

According to Izvestia on January 12, 2026, Russia is targeting a first flight of the Su-75 Checkmate light stealth fighter during 2026, though no date has been confirmed. If confirmed, this would mark the first real transition since its public debut in 2021 as a full-scale mock-up, showing whether Russia can still field a new lightweight combat aircraft under sanctions and industrial pressure. Read full defense news at this link...

Development of the Su-75 has followed a trajectory shaped by funding limits, revised timelines, and broader geopolitical pressures; the first flight was initially scheduled for 2023, later delayed to 2024, then 2025, and eventually early 2026. (Picture source: Russian MoD)

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