Introduction to the Su-34 Fullback
The Su-34 Fullback is a Russian-made, twin-engine, two-seat fighter-bomber aircraft designed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau. The Fullback is a development of the Su-27 Flanker and is characterized by its distinctive “platypus” nose, housing a phased-array radar system. The aircraft is designed for a variety of roles, including ground attack, air-to-air combat, and reconnaissance. Here are five things to know about the Su-34 Fullback:
Design and Development
The Su-34 Fullback was first unveiled in 1990, but its development was slow due to funding issues and changing military priorities. The aircraft made its maiden flight in 2006 and entered service with the Russian Air Force in 2007. The Fullback is designed to replace the aging Su-24 Fencer, a Soviet-era bomber. The aircraft features a new design, with a shorter fuselage and a distinctive nose section housing the radar system.
Key Features
- Airframe: The Su-34 has a metal airframe with a composite nose section.
- Engines: Two AL-31F turbofans, each producing 30,000 pounds of thrust.
- Avionics: Phased-array radar system, allowing for simultaneous air-to-air and air-to-ground targeting.
- Armament: 12 hardpoints for carrying missiles, bombs, and rockets.
Operational History
The Su-34 Fullback has seen service in several conflicts, including the Syrian Civil War, where it has been used to conduct air strikes against rebel forces. The aircraft has also been deployed to Ukraine, where it has been used to conduct reconnaissance missions. In 2015, the Russian Air Force deployed a squadron of Su-34s to Syria, where they have been used to conduct bombing raids against ISIS targets.
Notable Incidents
- 2015: A Su-34 collided with a Su-30SM Flanker-H in mid-air during a training exercise, resulting in the loss of both aircraft.
- 2017: A Su-34 was shot down by Syrian rebels, resulting in the deaths of both crew members.
Capabilities and Upgrades
The Su-34 Fullback is designed to be highly versatile, with the ability to conduct a range of missions, including:
- Air-to-Air Combat: The Su-34 is equipped with the 9M100 short-range air-to-air missile, allowing it to engage enemy aircraft.
- Air-to-Ground Attack: The Su-34 can carry a range of precision-guided munitions, including bombs and missiles.
- Reconnaissance: The Su-34 is equipped with a range of sensors, including radar and electro-optical systems, allowing it to conduct reconnaissance missions.
In 2019, the Russian Air Force announced plans to upgrade the Su-34 with new avionics and radar systems, allowing it to detect and engage stealthy targets.
Export Potential
The Su-34 Fullback has been marketed for export to several countries, including Algeria, Egypt, and India. However, the aircraft has not yet been exported, due in part to its high cost and complexity.
Comparison to Other Aircraft
The Su-34 Fullback is often compared to other fighter-bombers, such as the F-15E Strike Eagle and the Eurofighter Typhoon. While the Su-34 is not as maneuverable as some of its competitors, it is highly versatile and has a range of advanced sensors and avionics.
| Aircraft | Range | Speed | Armament |
|---|---|---|---|
| Su-34 Fullback | 4,000 km | 1,900 km/h | 12 hardpoints |
| F-15E Strike Eagle | 3,800 km | 2,600 km/h | 11 hardpoints |
| Eurofighter Typhoon | 3,000 km | 2,000 km/h | 13 hardpoints |
🚨 Note: The specifications listed are approximate and may vary depending on the source.
The Su-34 Fullback is a highly advanced and versatile aircraft, with a range of capabilities and upgrades. While it has not yet been exported, it remains an important part of the Russian Air Force, with a range of potential applications in air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attack, and reconnaissance.
The Su-34 Fullback has proven itself to be a reliable and effective aircraft in a range of operational environments. Its advanced sensors and avionics make it a valuable asset for any air force, and its range of capabilities make it an attractive option for countries looking to upgrade their military capabilities.
