The fifth-generation T-50 fighter will be put into service by Russian air forces in 2016 instead of 2015, Vladimir Putin said during a live TV call-in show, RIA Novosti reports.

"The serial production and deliveries of fifth-generation T-50 aircraft will be started in 2016”, — Vladimir Putin said. He noted that the jet will outmatch its closest rival – F-35 fighter, by many parameters.

"However, there are still problems to be solved connected with the jet’s powerplant and weapons. The engine must allow the jet to perform all kinds of combat missions and the weapons must be precise and powerful. Do we have what it takes? Yes, we do", — the president added.