1. Sukhoi T-50
Speed: Mach 2
In service: 2018
And , finally the first place on the list of fastest, most advanced Russian fighter jets goes to the Sukhoi T-50 that is the child of the Russian PAK-Fa program, aimed at providing VVS with the fifth generations stealth jet fighter. Original program that led to the PAK FA started in the late 1980s, with a goal of creating a multifunctional jet fighter that would eventually replace both MiG-29 and Sukhoi Su-27 fleets. It gave birth to such prototypes like MiG 1.44 and Su-37 (later Su-47). The breakup of the Soviet Union effectively put a stop to that program and both fighters were canceled, but valuable lessons were learned from it, especially from Su-47, which still serves as a technology demonstrator for the Sukhoi design bureau.
With current powerplants (Saturn AL-41F1 turbofans from Su-27, but there are indications that Russians are designing brand new engines for T-50), T-50 is capable of reaching speeds of Mach 2, making it the fastest, most modern Russian fighter jet. Although there are several of them currently in service, they are mainly used for testing purposes and not for the regular duties. The procurement has been delayed several times, but is expected to start in 2018.
T-50 also serves as a foundation for the joint research between Russian and Indian Air Forces for the Indian fifth generation fighter. As the only 5th generation fighter outside of US Air Force, it desrves the top spot among fastest, most modern Russian fighter jets.
