Russian Sukhoi T-50 (PAK FA) fifth-generation fighter aircraft is expected to carry out its first flight with a new engine in the fourth quarter of 2017, a spokesperson for the United Engine Corporation (UEC) said.

The spokesperson added that the development of the new engine for the advanced fighter jet was proceeding “within the framework of the designated time limits.”

The T-50 prototype aircraft is designed by the Russian aircraft manufacturer Sukhoi as part of the PAK FA, a fifth-generation fighter program of the Russian Aerospace Forces. It is a single-seat, twin-engine multi-role fighter jet designed for air superiority and attack roles and equipped with an advanced avionics system and active phased array airborne radar. The first flight of the aircraft took place in 2010.

Current T-50 prototypes are fitted with first-stage AL-41F1 turbofan engines manufactured by the aircraft engine maker Saturn. The second-stage, more powerful engines designated as “Izdeliye 30,” are slated for production this year, ahead of the aircraft’s planned mass production and delivery in 2018.

Last month, Alexander Artyukhov, Head of the United Engine Corporation, said that Research and Development (R&D) work for the main engines of Sukhoi T-50 (PAK FA) fifth-generation fighter jets is scheduled to be completed by 2020.

“This year we plan to begin tests as part of a flight laboratory. R&D completion is planned by 2020,” he added at the unveiling of an advanced MiG-35 multirole fighter.

The PAK FA fighter was first seen in January 2010 when it was presented at the air show MAKS-2011.

Mass production of Russia’s Sukhoi T-50 fifth-generation fighter jets will begin in 2017.