Increased Production Tempo

Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has substantially increased the production rate of Su-34 fighter-bombers and is delivering aircraft to ⁢the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) on ⁢a regular basis, according‍ to ⁤statements released on September 14, 2023. Rostec, the state-owned industrial ⁣conglomerate, confirmed the accelerated output.

“Our aviation factories have considerably increased production of these aircraft and are conducting rhythmic serial deliveries to the‍ troops,” stated a Rostec spokesperson, as reported by TASS, the Russian state news agency.

Vadim badekha, CEO of UAC, further emphasized the current production⁣ tempo. “UAC enterprises consistently maintain a high rate of combat equipment production, fulfilling their obligations to the‍ Russian Aerospace Forces on time. ⁢This month has set a record for the number of aircraft delivered,” he said, according to TASS. “Our employees ⁢at the plants, understanding the importance of delivering aviation⁢ equipment to the troops, are not only meeting production targets but are also continuously improving processes to support greater output – both for the Ministry of Defense and other programs.”

Su-34’s Role in Ukraine

The renewed focus on Su-34 production comes as Russia seeks to maintain operational tempo in Ukraine, where the aircraft has played‍ a regular role in long-range bombing missions utilizing guided munitions. The Su-34, manufactured by Sukhoi, is deployed across multiple fronts and remains ⁤a key component of Russia’s air campaign despite reported attrition throughout the conflict.

The Su-34 (“Fullback” NATO reporting name) is a twin-engine, ⁢supersonic strike fighter/fighter-bomber. It is known for its distinctive flattened cockpit and side-by-side seating arrangement for its two-person crew. Airforce Technology details its capabilities, including its advanced avionics and ability to carry a substantial payload of air-to-surface and air-to-air missiles ⁢and bombs.

Attrition ⁤and Replacement

Self-reliant sources suggest Russia has lost a important number of aircraft since⁤ the start of the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. ‍ Oryx, a group that documents military equipment losses based on visual confirmation, estimates that⁢ Russia has lost at⁤ least 91 fixed-wing aircraft, including a number of Su-34s. Increasing production is thus critical to offsetting these losses and sustaining Russia’s air power.

While exact figures are tough to verify independently, the increased production reported by UAC suggests Russia is prioritizing the replenishment of its‍ combat aircraft fleet. The ability to maintain this increased production rate will be a key factor in‍ the long-term ⁤course of the conflict.