Moscow: Russia has taken a major step in enhancing its military aviation capabilities by integrating a new fleet of advanced Su-30SM2 fighter jets into its air force. This significant development, confirmed by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), underscores Russia’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its air power. The introduction of these state-of-the-art aircraft represents a strategic move to strengthen the country’s defense infrastructure amidst evolving global challenges.
Continued Upgrades
These new jets have successfully completed all necessary ground and flight tests and are now ready for operational deployment within the designated military units, according to the UAC. While the exact number of delivered aircraft remains undisclosed, this reflects the typically secretive nature of Russian military procurement.
Despite a primary focus on producing Su-35 and Su-34 aircraft — of which only 8 to 10 units are manufactured annually — Russia continues to upgrade and refurbish older models like the Su-30 and MiG-29. The recent delivery of Su-30SM2 jets underscores that production of these models has not been entirely halted. Since the onset of the war in Ukraine in 2022, it is estimated that between 20 and 30 Su-30SM2 units have been delivered to the Russian military.
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Coinciding with F-16 Deployments
The Su-30SM2, the latest variant in the Su-30 series, boasts significant enhancements, including an improved onboard radar system with an extended range for detecting and identifying aerial targets.
Additionally, these jets are equipped with high-precision weaponry designed to engage air, land, and sea targets over distances of several hundred kilometers.
This delivery coincides with the deployment of U.S.-supplied F-16s in Ukraine, suggesting that Russia is positioning the Su-30SM2 as a countermeasure to this new challenge.
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The upgraded avionics, featuring a new phased array radar and advanced communication systems compatible with modern jets like the Su-57, make the Su-30SM2 a formidable addition to Russia’s aerial combat capabilities.
Powered by two AL-41F-1C engines, the Su-30SM2 can reach speeds exceeding 1,300 mph, operate at altitudes up to 57,000 feet, and has a range of approximately 1,800 miles, marking a significant advancement in Russia’s air defense strategy.
