Camilla Jessen
As Western nations deliver F-16s to Ukraine, Belarus and Russia deepen cooperation on the stealth Su-75 Checkmate.
Belarus has officially confirmed it is helping Russia develop its newest stealth fighter jet, the Su-75 Checkmate.
Speaking on the state TV channel Belarus 1 on May 26, Dmitry Pantus, head of Belarus’ military industry, said the two countries are “working closely” on the project.
“We’re cooperating very actively in aviation,” Pantus said, adding that Belarus is teaming up with Russia’s Rosoboronexport and United Aircraft Corporation to move the project forward.
What Is the Su-75 Checkmate?
The Su-75 was first revealed in 2021 at Russia’s big MAKS air show.
Built by the Russian company Sukhoi, the plane is a single-engine stealth fighter aimed at buyers who want a cheaper alternative to jets like the U.S. F-35 or China’s J-31.
Key features of the Su-75 include:
- Speeds of up to Mach 2
- A flying range of nearly 3,000 km
- Room for 7,400 kg of weapons
- A design based on Russia’s more advanced Su-57
- A focus on low cost and export appeal
So far, Russia is pushing to sell the jet abroad, with countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East named as possible customers.
Belarus Aims for a Bigger Role
It’s not yet clear what exactly Belarus will contribute — whether it’s parts, research, or support.
But this is one of the most high-profile defense projects Belarus has publicly joined in recent years, showing just how close it has become with Russia.
Belarus plans to be more involved in Russia’s military technology, especially as tensions remain high over Ukraine and Western sanctions.
The same day Belarus made its announcement, the Dutch Ministry of Defense confirmed the final batch of F-16 fighter jets left the Netherlands for Ukraine. This brings the total to 24 donated jets as part of ongoing Western support for Kyiv’s defense.
