Kazakhstan is reportedly set to receive Russian Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets within the next two years, marking a major leap in its air force modernisation.

If confirmed, this would make Kazakhstan the second former Soviet republic after Russia to operate such advanced aircraft, and potentially the second foreign customer after Algeria.

Kazakhstan is expected to induct the Su-57 to replace its ageing Su-27 fleet, with the possibility of later phasing out MiG-31 aircraft. Reports suggest that orders may already have been placed following Russia’s confirmation in 2025 that multiple countries had signed contracts for the Su-57.

This acquisition would introduce fifth-generation fighters into Kazakhstan’s Air Defence Forces for the first time, significantly enhancing its combat capabilities.

Currently, Kazakhstan operates combat aircraft of Soviet and Russian origin, including Su-27s, Su-30SMs, and MiG-31 interceptors. The Su-57, with its stealth design, advanced radar systems, and long-range strike capability, represents a generational upgrade.

While the specific variant has not been confirmed, only three fifth-generation fighters are available for export globally: Russia’s Su-57, China’s J-35, and the US F-35. An F-35 purchase is considered politically unlikely, leaving the J-35 as the main competitor in Central Asia.

China has already expanded its footprint in the region’s fighter market. In the early 2020s, it supplied JF-17 Block 3 fighters to Azerbaijan and J-10C fighters to Uzbekistan, replacing Soviet-era MiG-29s. This growing Chinese presence makes Kazakhstan’s reported move towards the Su-57 strategically significant, reinforcing its defence ties with Moscow.

The Su-57 is generally regarded as less technologically advanced than the US F-35 and Chinese J-35 in certain aspects, particularly in avionics and stealth coatings.

However, it offers notable advantages such as lower maintenance requirements, longer operational range, extensive combat testing in Ukraine, and compatibility with specialised missile systems including the R-37M long-range air-to-air missile. These features make it a practical choice for Kazakhstan, whose defence budget is modest compared to regional powers.

If the procurement is finalised, Kazakhstan would deepen its reliance on Russian-origin military aviation while gaining access to a more advanced generation of combat aircraft. Analysts note that such a deal could also carry political undertones, with Moscow potentially offering favourable financing or barter arrangements as part of its broader strategy to maintain influence in Central Asia.

The acquisition would not only modernise Kazakhstan’s air force but also alter the regional balance of power. With China testing sixth-generation aircraft and expanding its exports, and Russia pushing the Su-57 to secure new clients, Central Asia is becoming a competitive arena for advanced fighter technology. Kazakhstan’s decision could therefore shape the trajectory of military aviation in the region for years to come.

Agencies