Russia will manufacture large quantities of its T-50 stealth combat aircraft as of 2015, with the intent of exporting it in substantial quantities. Russia sees the new aircraft as a chief measure towards increasing its export of military systems. In 2010, Russia exported such systems at a total value of $9 billion, and it intends to increase the defense export.The T-50 is intended to replace Russia's old Mig-28 and Sukhoi-27 for the next 30 years. The T-50's initial flight was carried out in 2010, and now its development is being completed, with preparations underway in the Russian Sukhoi plants towards the start of production.
The T-50 is a twin-engine aircraft with a design reminiscent of the US F-22 produced by Lockheed Martin. It also possesses stealth and supersonic capabilities and will be equipped with the latest missile system generation.
Stealth aircraft is built in a special geometric form which prevents radar waves from returning to the antenna of the transmitting station, preventing against detection. The body of the aircraft is generally covered with special "radar absorbing" materials who are also meant to ensure that it will not be seen on radar screens.
Such an aircraft in the hands of states hostile to Israel, such as Iran, would result in a drastic disruption of the balance of power, if the aircraft proves to possess clear stealth qualities.