Since at least June 2022, the Russian Aerospace Forces have been using Su-57 Felon aircraft to carry out missions against Ukraine.. Felon is the most advanced fifth-generation Russian supersonic combat jet aircraft, using stealth technology and advanced avionics..

At the same time, according to British Department of Defense analysts, these missions were probably limited to flights over Russian territory and launches of long-range air-to-ground or air-to-air missiles into Ukraine..

In particular, the latest commercially available images show five Felons parked at the Akhtubinsk airbase in the Astrakhan region, where the 929th flight test center is located.. Since this is the only Su-57 base known, these aircraft probably participated in operations against Ukraine..

Russia likely prefers to avoid the reputational damage, reduced export prospects and compromise of sensitive technology that could result from any Su-57 Felon loss over Ukraine..

Thus, Russia hesitates to use its air force in the war.

Latest Defense Intelligence update on situation in Ukraine - 9 January 2023From UK government's response: https://t. co/MFEwqMMnI3? #StandWithUkraine? pic. twitter. com/mdjvswJrWJ.

— Ministry of Defense? (@DefenceHQ) January 9, 2023.