Su-35S Delivery: Russian Air Force Receives New Aircraft
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Sukhoi Su-35S Flanker-E: Russia’s Multi-Role Air Superiority Fighter
What is the Sukhoi Su-35S?
The Sukhoi Su-35S (designated Flanker-E by NATO) is a highly maneuverable, single-seat, twin-engine multirole fighter jet developed by Russia’s Sukhoi Design Bureau. It represents a notable upgrade over the earlier Su-35, incorporating advanced avionics, a more powerful engine, and enhanced weapon systems.Essentially,it’s a 4++ generation fighter,bridging the gap between fourth and fifth-generation aircraft.
Development and Key Improvements
The Su-35S builds upon the foundation laid by the original Su-35,which itself was a modernization of the Su-27 Flanker. Development began in the early 2000s, with the goal of creating a fighter capable of challenging Western fourth and fifth-generation aircraft. Key improvements include:
- Advanced Radar: The Irbis-E passive electronically scanned array radar provides superior detection range and tracking capabilities, capable of tracking up to 30 air targets concurrently.
- Thrust-Vectoring Engines: AL-41F1S turbofan engines with three-dimensional thrust vectoring nozzles dramatically enhance maneuverability, allowing for post-stall maneuvering.
- Enhanced Avionics: A new open-architecture avionics suite improves situational awareness and data processing.
- Increased Payload Capacity: The Su-35S can carry a significantly larger payload of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions.
- Reduced Radar Cross-Section: While not a stealth aircraft, the su-35S incorporates radar absorbent materials and design features to reduce its radar signature.
Capabilities and Weaponry
The Su-35S is designed for a wide range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD). Its weaponry includes:
| Weapon Type | Range (approx.) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| R-77 (RVV-AE) | 110 km | Long-range air-to-air missile |
| R-37M | 300 km | Very long-range air-to-air missile |
| Kh-31 | 100 km | anti-radiation missile |
| Kh-35 | 260 km | anti-ship missile |
| KAB-500L/OFAB-500 | Varies | Guided/Unguided bombs |
The aircraft’s advanced electronic warfare suite provides self-protection against enemy radar and missile threats.
Operational History and Users
the Su-35S entered service with the Russian Aerospace Forces in 2014.It has seen combat in Syria, where it was reportedly used to provide air cover for Russian forces and to conduct strikes against rebel targets. Currently, the primary operator is Russia, but export customers include:
- China
- Egypt
- Indonesia
- Algeria
Deliveries to these countries are ongoing, and the Su-35S is becoming an increasingly common sight in the skies of various regions.