Russia's 5th-gen turbofan engine promises supercruise for fighter jets

Russia has unveiled its new 177S fifth-generation turbofan engine, designed as an advanced evolution of the AL-31F/FP series currently used in the Su-27 family of fighters. Weighing 1,530 kg and delivering 14,500 kgf of afterburning thrust, the 177S maintains dimensional compatibility with its predecessor, enabling easy retrofitting of existing aircraft with minimal modifications. Key improvements include a reduced specific fuel consumption below 0.67 kg/kgf·h for extended range, a service life extended to 6,000 hours, and a fourfold increase in time between overhauls. The engine also features thrust-vectoring nozzles for enhanced maneuverability, a full-authority digital engine control system with backups, integrated health monitoring, and a new blisk fan resistant to foreign-object damage. The 177S is intended primarily for late-model Su-35S fighters, the Su-57 Felon, and the upcoming single-engine Su