Sukhoi Su-35
The Sukhoi Su-35 is a Russian highly manoeuvrable twin-engine multirole fighter developed from the Su-27 Flanker. The current Su-35S combines an updated airframe, powerful radar, new avionics and thrust-vectoring engines.[1]
Development
The Su-35 name was first applied to the Su-27M, an improved Flanker developed in the late Soviet period. That programme produced a small number of aircraft but did not enter large-scale service.
Sukhoi later reused the designation for a thoroughly modernised aircraft initially called Su-35BM. The Su-35S entered Russian service in 2014 and has also been exported.[2]
Design
Compared with early Su-27s, the Su-35S has a strengthened and refined airframe, greater fuel capacity and modern digital systems. Its AL-41F1S engines use thrust-vectoring nozzles, contributing to exceptional low-speed manoeuvrability.
The Irbis-E passive electronically scanned array radar can track multiple targets, while infrared search-and-track and electronic-warfare systems provide additional detection and self-defence options. Twelve external stations carry a wide variety of missiles and bombs.
Operational history
Russian Su-35s have performed air-defence, escort and strike duties, including operations in Syria and Ukraine. The aircraft’s long range and missile load make it suitable for both defensive patrols and fighter escort.
China became the first export customer, and Algeria has been reported as a subsequent operator. The type remains an important non-stealth fighter in Russian service.
Variants and operators
The aircraft family includes Su-27M; Su-35; Su-35S; Su-35UB prototype. Equipment, weapons and mission systems differ among production blocks and national fleets.
Principal or notable users include Russian Aerospace Forces; People’s Liberation Army Air Force; Algerian Air Force. Some operators have retired early versions while others continue upgrades or new procurement.[1]
Specifications
Published performance figures depend on configuration, fuel, altitude and mission profile. Representative figures for the family include a maximum speed of Mach 2.25 and a range of Approximately 3,600 km. The usual crew is 1, and power is provided by 2 × Saturn AL-41F1S afterburning turbofans.[1]