Russia to bring Su-57E, Yak-130M and new C-71 systems to El Alamein Airshow 2026

Russia brings Su-57E, Yak-130M and new C-71 systems to El Alamein Airshow 2026. Photo: United Aircraft Corporation (UAC/OAK) Russia's aviation industry is preparing one of its main international showcases of 2026 for the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt. United Aircraft Corporation (UAC/OAK), part of the state-owned Rostec group, will bring the Su-57E, the upgraded Yak-130M and new air systems from the C-71 family to the event. C-71 family air systems (left) and Yak-130M (right). Photo: United Aircraft Corporation (UAC/OAK) The event will take place from September 8 to 10, 2026, at El Alamein International Airport, bringing together companies and representatives from the aviation, defense and space sectors in Africa, the Middle East and other regions. One of the highlights will be the Yak-130M, which will make its first public appearance in the region. The aircraft is an evolution of the Yak-130, originally developed primarily for advanced pilot training, but which can also perform operational missions. Yak-130M. Photo: United Aircraft Corporation (UAC/OAK) In the new configuration, the manufacturer aims to expand this second role. According to information released by Rosoboronexport, the Yak-130M incorporates an AESA radar, self-protection and reconnaissance systems, as well as compatibility with a wider range of guided weapons. These changes bring the aircraft closer to the concept of a light multirole fighter while retaining its use as a training platform. Su-57E to perform flight demonstration Another major element of the Russian presence will be the Su-57E, the export version of Russia's fifth-generation fighter. Su-57E (left). Photo: United Aircraft Corporation (UAC/OAK) The aircraft is scheduled to appear both in the static display and in the event's flight demonstration program. The performance should allow potential operators to observe the model's flight characteristics and maneuverability, while the ground display will be used to showcase systems associated with the platform. Rostec also said that the Su-57E will be presented in Egypt alongside new equipment that, according to the company, had not previously been publicly displayed at events either inside or outside Russia. C-71 family to make international debut Among the newly announced systems are the C-71M and C-71K, developed for deployment from fifth-generation aircraft. C-71 family (right). Photo: United Aircraft Corporation (UAC/OAK) Rosoboronexport itself describes the two models as unmanned platforms designed to be launched from fifth-generation fighters. Detailed technical information about the projects remains limited, which calls for caution regarding specifications published by unofficial sources. The systems are primarily associated with the Su-57 and are part of Russia's effort to integrate the aircraft with assets capable of operating from greater distances, reducing the need for the fighter to approach the area of interest. The presentation in Egypt also highlights the Russian industry's attempt to increase the international visibility of these platforms, particularly in markets where Moscow has traditionally maintained ties in the aviation sector. North Africa remains strategic for Russian industry Participation in the El Alamein Airshow comes at a time when Russian manufacturers are seeking to strengthen their commercial presence in Africa and the Middle East. According to Vadim Badekha, CEO of UAC, North Africa remains one of the regions considered important for the international promotion of the company's products. The company also says it has recorded growing interest in its aircraft following their operational use in recent years. This assessment, however, comes from the manufacturer itself and should be understood within the commercial context of the presentation in Egypt. In addition to the aircraft on display, representatives from UAC and Rosoboronexport are expected to hold meetings with operators, government delegations and potential customers during the three-day event. El Alamein International Airshow 2026 is the second edition of the exhibition, which was launched in 2024. According to the organizers, the program includes flight demonstrations, static aircraft displays, conferences and presentations of technologies from the aviation, space and defense sectors. + TV presenter Sarah Khalifa sentenced to death in Egypt drug trafficking case + Car of Soviet serviceman who saved Kim Jong-un's grandfather inaugurates bridge between Russia and North Korea Source: Rostec/UAC, Rosoboronexport and El Alamein International Airshow. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.