Russia Could Start 5th Generation Fighter Tests By Yearend

From RIA Novosti:

Russia could start tests of its fifth-generation fighter in late 2009 or early 2010, a deputy prime minister said on Wednesday.

"We are not making any New Year presents, but flight tests will start in the very near future," said Sergei Ivanov, who oversees the defense sectors of industry.

He said on December 8 the trials would begin in 2010.

Deputy Defense Minister Vladimir Popovkin has said the fighter, which has been under development since the 1990s, will enter service with the Air Force in 2015.

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My Comment: I have a sinking feeling that the Russians (unlike the Americans and their F-35 program) are not spending $300 billion for their 5th generation aircraft.