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Sukhoi Su-47

The Sukhoi Su-47 Berkut was a Russian experimental supersonic technology demonstrator developed by Sukhoi.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Sukhoi Su-47 Berkut was a Russian experimental supersonic technology demonstrator developed by Sukhoi. Its most distinctive feature was its forward-swept wing, which was intended to improve agility and maneuverability. Only one aircraft was built, and the design did not enter serial production, but it contributed technologies later used in the Su-35 and Su-57.

Development

The Su-47 was developed by Sukhoi as an experimental platform for testing advanced aerodynamics and materials. It was initially designated S-32 and S-37 during development. The aircraft first flew on 25 September 1997.

Design

The aircraft used a forward-swept wing layout, an unusual configuration intended to enhance maneuverability and handling. It also incorporated advanced control technologies and experimental fighter concepts. The Su-47 had a NATO reporting name of 'Firkin'.

Operational history

The Su-47 remained a prototype and did not proceed to serial production. It was used to evaluate technologies that later appeared in newer Russian fighters such as the Su-35 and Su-57.

Specifications

Published specifications vary by source, but commonly cited figures include a top speed around Mach 1.6 in test conditions, a range of about 3,300 km, and a service ceiling of 18,000 m. The aircraft was powered by two turbofan engines, commonly reported as D-30F11, and had a crew of one.

Key facts

  • The Su-47 was a technology demonstrator, not a production fighter.
  • Its forward-swept wing was its defining aerodynamic feature.
  • Only one prototype was built.
  • Technologies from the Su-47 were later used in the Su-35 and Su-57.
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Canadian context

The Su-47 is mainly of interest to Canadian readers as a notable Russian experimental aircraft and a reference point in modern fighter-aircraft design and aerospace history.

Frequently asked questions

What was the Sukhoi Su-47?
It was a Russian experimental supersonic technology demonstrator built by Sukhoi to test advanced fighter technologies.
Why is the Su-47 famous?
It is best known for its forward-swept wing, an unusual design meant to improve agility and maneuverability.
Did the Su-47 enter production?
No. Only one aircraft was built, and the design was not developed into serial production.
When did the Su-47 first fly?
It first flew on 25 September 1997.
What later aircraft used Su-47 technology?
Sources say technologies tested on the Su-47 were later used in the Su-35 and Su-57.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sukhoi_Su-47
    Supports: Basic identification, development designations, experimental role, forward-swept wing, and later influence on Su-35 and Su-57.
  2. Airforce Technology — https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/s37/
    Supports: First flight date, forward-swept wing configuration, technology demonstrator role, and general specifications.
  3. Redstar.gr — https://www.redstar.gr/en/russian-aerial-means/aircraft/sukhoi/su-47-berkut-multipurpose-fighter.html
    Supports: First flight date, program context, and flight-test history.
  4. Fighter-Planes.com — https://fighter-planes.com/info/s37.htm
    Supports: Commonly cited dimensions and performance figures.
  5. Popular Mechanics — https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/aviation/a28834443/su-47-berkut/
    Supports: General explanation of the forward-swept wing and its maneuverability implications.