In a noteworthy military development, Russia has stationed 15 Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets at the Dzyomgi airbase located in the Khabarovsk region, just 280 kilometers from the Chinese border. Satellite imagery from February 9 shows these advanced aircraft deployed outdoors alongside other combat aircraft, indicating one of the most substantial concentrations of Su-57s seen to date. This deployment underscores Russia’s strategic interests in the region, particularly given the aircraft's role in air superiority and attack missions as part of Russia's military aviation elite.

The Su-57 is the most advanced program within the Russian military aviation sector, yet its operational numbers remain limited, with estimates of the total fleet between 20 to 25 units, inclusive of prototypes and initial production models. The confirmation of at least 16 operational airframes illustrates the challenges Russia faces in expanding its advanced combat capabilities. The concentration of at least 15 Su-57s at a single base highlights a significant portion of Russia's stealth capabilities being pooled in one location, raising questions about the intentions behind this strategic movement.

This deployment has not gone unnoticed and is likely an indicator of Russia’s response to geopolitical dynamics in the region, particularly in relation to China. The strategic positioning of such advanced military assets near the border suggests a calculated move by Putin to bolster regional security and show military readiness, amidst concerns about China's increasing influence and military modernization. This development could have implications for regional stability and provoke responses from neighboring nations.