Algeria joins Su‑34 club: High-tech warplanes in desert camo
Even though Su-34 planes are commonly associated with Russia, they are not the only nation using them. A video has surfaced online showing a unit in desert camouflage, which likely belongs to Algeria. Here’s what this aircraft is capable of.
A Telegram account associated with Russian military aviation, Fighterbomber, published footage and a photo featuring the Su-34 tactical bomber in an unusual desert camouflage. This is presumed to be an export version for an undisclosed client, possibly Algeria.
Algeria first planned to acquire Su-34 planes in 2016, but negotiations stretched into 2021. Fourteen planes were ordered and expected for delivery between late 2022 and 2023, although there may be delays due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Su-34 - frontline bomber made in Russia
The Su-34, like other modern Russian aircraft, is a significant evolution of the Su-27 air superiority fighter. It has been adapted for attacking ground targets and providing direct support to ground troops.
Thus, the two pilots, uniquely seated side by side, are placed in a titanium "tub" designed to protect against gunfire from weapons such as the Gepard and shrapnel from anti-aircraft missiles. Russians claim this arrangement enhances communication between the pilots.
Additionally, some systems are duplicated, the radar has capabilities for automatic flight correction at low altitudes, and the Chibiny electronic warfare system is standard on these aircraft.
This ensures maximum safety for the aircraft, which can carry up to 31,000 pounds of ordnance on 12 pylons. These include pods with unguided S-8 rockets, Kh-25 missiles, KAB glide bombs, and Raduga Kh-59 missiles with a range of over 124 miles. It can also carry six FAB-500 bombs, three FAB-1500 bombs, or one FAB-3000 bomb.
Su-34 - frontline realities turned it into a taxi for KABs
However, in practice, frontline air attacks in Ukraine often result in losses. As a consequence, Su-34s are currently used by Russians primarily for dropping guided bombs from high altitudes, commonly referred to as KABs. Some of these include unguided FAB bombs upgraded with a UMPK conversion kit.
These, especially in large calibers like the FAB-1500 or FAB-3000, containing approximately 1,550 pounds and 3,300 pounds of TNT respectively, pose a significant threat even if they miss by a few dozen yards.
