
Su-57 Repurposed as Drone Interceptor: Russia's Most Advanced Fighter Takes on a New Role Under Ukrainian Strike Pressure
As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its fifth year, Russia has begun deploying its Su-57 stealth fighter in an anti-drone role. On July 6, 2026, a Ukrainian drone strike on the Omsk oil refinery — more than 3,000 km from the front line — saw Su-57s scrambled to intercept, but they reportedly downed only one drone while others hit their target. The episode has intensified debate over Russia's reluctance to expose its most advanced aircraft to high-risk combat.
Source: EURASIAN Times Defense
