Russian T-50 Fighter Better Than US F-22, Says Vladimir Putin

The fifth-generation T-50 fighter jet will be better than the US-built F-22 Raptor aircraft, according to Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.

While watching a T-50 test flight, Putin said the jet would be superior to the F-22 fighter in terms of manoeuvrability, weaponry and range, according to Reuters.

According to Putin, the T-50 fighter will cost up to three times less than similar aircraft in the West and could remain in service for 30 to 35 years with upgrades.

Russia, which also has plans to manufacture T-50s jointly with India, expects to make the jet operational in 2015.

The only fifth-generation fighter currently in service, the F-22 raptor stealth fighter has advanced flight, weapons control systems and can cruise at supersonic speeds.