The SU-34 Fighter Bomber: Russia's Stealthy Attack Aircraft
The SU-34 is a Russian-made fighter bomber that has been in service since 2006. It is a highly advanced aircraft designed for a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance. The SU-34 is known for its stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and precision-guided munitions. In this article, we will take a closer look at the SU-34’s design, capabilities, and operational history.
Design and Development
The SU-34 was designed by Sukhoi, a Russian aerospace company, in the 1990s. The aircraft was developed from the SU-27 Flanker, a highly successful fighter jet. The SU-34’s design features a number of significant improvements over the SU-27, including a new fuselage, wings, and tail section. The aircraft is powered by two Saturn AL-31FM1 turbofan engines, which provide a combined 26,500 kgf (58,400 lbf) of thrust.
The SU-34 has a number of stealth features, including radar-absorbent materials and a unique design that reduces its radar cross-section. The aircraft’s wings are also designed to reduce its visibility on radar. The SU-34’s cockpit is equipped with advanced avionics, including a glass cockpit and a head-up display.
Capabilities
The SU-34 is a highly capable aircraft that can perform a variety of missions. The aircraft is equipped with a range of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, including precision-guided bombs and missiles. The SU-34’s advanced avionics and radar system allow it to engage targets at long range and in all weather conditions.
The SU-34 is also equipped with a advanced electronic warfare system, which allows it to detect and disrupt enemy radar and communications systems. The aircraft’s stealth capabilities make it difficult to detect on radar, allowing it to penetrate enemy airspace undetected.
Operational History
The SU-34 entered service with the Russian Air Force in 2006. Since then, the aircraft has seen action in a number of conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and the Syrian Civil War. The SU-34 has proven itself to be a highly effective aircraft, capable of delivering precision-guided munitions in a variety of environments.
In 2015, the SU-34 was deployed to Syria as part of Russia’s intervention in the Syrian Civil War. The aircraft played a key role in the Russian campaign, conducting airstrikes against ISIS and other terrorist groups.
Specifications
| Length | 23.34 m (76 ft 7 in) |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 14.7 m (48 ft 3 in) |
| Height | 6.09 m (19 ft 11 in) |
| Empty weight | 22,500 kg (49,600 lb) |
| Max takeoff weight | 44,000 kg (97,000 lb) |
| Engines | 2 x Saturn AL-31FM1 turbofan engines |
| Thrust | 26,500 kgf (58,400 lbf) |
| Max speed | 1,900 km/h (1,181 mph) |
| Range | 4,000 km (2,500 mi) |
| Service ceiling | 18,000 m (59,055 ft) |
🚨 Note: The specifications listed above are approximate and may vary depending on the source.
Armament
The SU-34 is equipped with a range of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, including:
- Air-to-air missiles: R-27, R-77, and R-73
- Air-to-ground missiles: Kh-25, Kh-29, and Kh-59
- Precision-guided bombs: KAB-500 and KAB-1500
- Unguided rockets: S-8 and S-13
Conclusion
The SU-34 is a highly advanced fighter bomber that has proven itself to be a valuable asset for the Russian Air Force. The aircraft’s stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and precision-guided munitions make it a formidable opponent in the skies. With its impressive operational history and capabilities, the SU-34 is sure to remain a key player in Russia’s military arsenal for years to come.
What is the primary role of the SU-34?
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The primary role of the SU-34 is as a fighter bomber, capable of conducting air-to-air combat and air-to-ground strikes.
What are the SU-34’s stealth capabilities?
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The SU-34 has a number of stealth features, including radar-absorbent materials and a unique design that reduces its radar cross-section.
What is the SU-34’s range?
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The SU-34 has a range of approximately 4,000 km (2,500 mi).
Related Terms:
- Sukhoi Su 35
- Sukhoi Su 27
- Su 33
- Sukhoi Su 57
- su 34 cockpit
