The S-70 Okhotnik is a multi-role, low observable military unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) developed by Sukhoi of Russia. The single-engine aircraft took its maiden flight on August 3, 2019 and it entered service in 2022.
The Okhotnik (“Hunter” in Russian) performs a number of missions, ones that are conducted autonomously, semi-autonomously, and remotely piloted. The S-70 can perform strike, air superiority, and ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) data collections operations. It can function in these roles as a “loyal wingman” in a semi-autonomous, MUM-T (Manned-Unmanned Teaming) framework with control inputs by the pilot of a Sukhoi Su-57 fifth-generation fighter. As many as four S-70 UCAVs can accompany a single Su-57 as loyal wingmen.
The S-70 features a steeply swept, tailless “flying wing” design with a span of 59 feet. Developed using state-of-the-art aerodynamic simulation software, the aircraft has a low radar cross section (RCS) and employs mechanisms to mask its acoustic and heat signatures to optimize its low observability. The aircraft has two internal bays that can accommodate a range of munitions, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-surface missiles, and precision-guided bombs.
The S-70 has a retractable tricycle undercarriage and is powered by a single Saturn AL-41FM1 turbofan engine. It has a maximum range of 3,700 miles and a maximum speed of 620 miles per hour.
