Sukhoi Company has carried out some experiments on approach and docking of PAK FA (T-50) with a tanker aircraft. Nine contacts have been performed during one flight. Besides Т-50-2 prototype, Il-78 tanker with a crew from a combat military unit and Su-25UB tracking aircraft with a crew from Air Force Test Center participated in the tests, the company’s press-service reports. AEX.ru

The steadiness, controllability and durability of Т-50-2 are currently being tested in a wide range of sub- and supersonic flight modes using different fighter’s configurations.

The preparation of first flight prototype Т-50-1 for the flight tests on beyond-stall angles of attack and super-maneuverability is being completed.

The flight testing of Т-50-3 prototype equipped with unique radar system with active phased antenna array and other advanced avionics was started in August. The first ground and flight tests of the radar system in air-to-air and air-to-surface modes showed good results at the level of the best existing aircraft. The ways for further development of these capabilities have been confirmed. The testing of optical channels was started.

The active phased antenna array developed by Tikhomirov Scientific Research Institute of Instrument Design allows increasing the acquisition range, working in air-to-air and air-to-surface modes simultaneously, identifying and classifying group and single objects, attacking several targets simultaneously using high-precision weapons, providing communications and electronic countermeasures.

The fourth PAK FA prototype will join the testing this year.