Russia's Sukhoi T-50 Challenges U.S. Jet

Jan. 29: In this image made from a TV screen and provided by APTN, a Russian-made Sukhoi T-50 prototype fifth-generation fighter jet is seen during a test flight near the Siberian city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Russia.  (AP)

If the  Sukhoi T-50 prototype goes into production, it will be the first major new aircraft design built in post-Soviet Russia. Officials have expressed hope that the T-50 will enter service in 2015. (AP)

Friday's successful test of the plane, developed in partnership with India, comes as a relief to Russian government officials. A series of failures on high-profile weapons projects has blighted Russia's attempts to modernize its rusting arsenals. (AP)

The specifications and design of Russia's new fighter have keep secret, and Friday's statement offered few details. Aviation officials have said the new craft will meet the fifth-generation requirements, including a supersonic cruising speed. (AP)