Russia's Su‑35S: A Modern menace in the skies over Ukraine
The Russian army has received another batch of Su-35S fighters. Despite being an export failure, the Su-35S remains Russia's most modern multirole fighter, posing a significant threat whenever it appears over Ukraine. Let's delve into its equipment and performance.
Employed in planned, covert attacks on Ukraine, Su-35S fighters typically accompany strategic bombers Tu-95MS. Adapted for various munitions, they carry long-range missiles and bombs, including guided ones.
Recent updates from Ukrainian sources reveal that the Su-35S has been enhanced to deploy new Ch-69 missiles, over 13 feet in length and weighing around 1,697 lbs – 661 lbs of which is the warhead. Their reach is estimated at 249 miles.
Russia bolsters its fleet with more Su-35S jets
The Su-35S isn't the most populous fighter in the Russian military's collection. Public data indicates a limited number of these jets, significantly boosting each new delivery's capabilities. This recent delivery, marking the second this year, occurred at an airport in Komsomolsk-on-Amur.
Su-35 was designed to bridge the technological gap between older aircraft and the futuristic fifth-generation Su-57. Its international success has been limited, with China being the sole international operator. The ongoing war in Ukraine, which has seen several units destroyed, does nothing to improve its prospects.
The Su-35S among Russian aircraft
In comparison with other Russian military aircraft, the Su-35S stands out. This twin-engine multirole fighter, with a length of 70.87 ft and a wingspan of 50.2 ft, weighs nearly 41,887 lbs. It's tasked with engaging air, ground, and sea targets. Enhanced by vectoring thrust engines, the jet boasts remarkable maneuverability, particularly at low speeds.
The Su‑35S can attain a top speed of 2.25 Mach (approximately 1,490 mph) and carry up to 17,637 lbs of weapons. Its standard equipment includes an anti-aircraft GSz-30 caliber 30 mm cannon. Noteworthy features include the N035 Irbis-E radar, capable of tracking 30 air targets and engaging eight simultaneously, alongside an advanced electronic warfare system.
