Intro
Discover the cutting-edge features of the Su-34 Fullback Bomber, Russias premier fighter-bomber aircraft. Learn about its advanced avionics, maneuverability, and versatility, as well as its armament, radar systems, and enhanced survivability. Explore the 7 key features that make the Su-34 a formidable opponent in modern air warfare.
The Su-34 Fullback bomber is a multi-role, twin-engine fighter aircraft designed by Russia's Sukhoi company. The aircraft has been in service with the Russian Air Force since 2006 and has been used in various military operations, including in Syria. In this article, we will explore the 7 key features of the Su-34 Fullback bomber.
1. Design and Development
The Su-34 Fullback bomber was designed to replace the aging Su-24 bomber fleet of the Russian Air Force. The development of the aircraft began in the 1990s, and the first prototype was rolled out in 2003. The aircraft made its maiden flight in 2006, and serial production began in 2008.
Key Design Features
- The Su-34 Fullback bomber has a unique design with a distinctive "duck-bill" nose and a curved, upwards-sloping tail.
- The aircraft has a length of 23.3 meters (76 feet 5 inches) and a wingspan of 14.7 meters (48 feet 3 inches).
- The Su-34 has a maximum takeoff weight of 45,000 kg (99,208 pounds) and a payload capacity of 8,000 kg (17,637 pounds).
2. Engine and Performance
The Su-34 Fullback bomber is powered by two Saturn AL-31FM1 turbofan engines, each producing 14,000 kg (30,864 pounds) of thrust. The aircraft has a top speed of Mach 1.8 (2,200 km/h or 1,367 mph) and a range of 4,000 km (2,500 miles).
Key Performance Features
- The Su-34 Fullback bomber has a maximum service ceiling of 17,000 meters (55,774 feet).
- The aircraft has a rate of climb of 65 meters per second (13,123 feet per minute).
- The Su-34 has a maximum G-force of 9 Gs.
3. Avionics and Radar
The Su-34 Fullback bomber has a state-of-the-art avionics system, including a phased array radar and a electronic warfare system.
Key Avionics Features
- The Su-34 Fullback bomber has a V005 phased array radar with a range of 400 km (250 miles).
- The aircraft has a L175M Khibiny electronic warfare system with a range of 100 km (62 miles).
- The Su-34 has a comprehensive navigation system, including GPS and INS.
4. Armament and Payload
The Su-34 Fullback bomber has a wide range of armament options, including guided bombs, missiles, and rockets.
Key Armament Features
- The Su-34 Fullback bomber can carry up to 8,000 kg (17,637 pounds) of payload.
- The aircraft has 12 hardpoints for carrying armament.
- The Su-34 can carry a range of guided bombs, including the KAB-500 and KAB-1500.
5. Defensive Systems
The Su-34 Fullback bomber has a comprehensive defensive system, including a self-protection system and a electronic warfare system.
Key Defensive Features
- The Su-34 Fullback bomber has a V005 self-protection system with a range of 200 km (124 miles).
- The aircraft has a L175M Khibiny electronic warfare system with a range of 100 km (62 miles).
- The Su-34 has a comprehensive countermeasures system, including chaff and flares.
6. Operational History
The Su-34 Fullback bomber has been used in various military operations, including in Syria.
Key Operational Features
- The Su-34 Fullback bomber was first used in combat in 2015, during the Russian intervention in Syria.
- The aircraft has been used to conduct precision strikes against enemy targets.
- The Su-34 has also been used to conduct reconnaissance missions.
7. Future Development
The Su-34 Fullback bomber is expected to remain in service with the Russian Air Force for many years to come.
Key Future Development Features
- The Su-34 Fullback bomber is expected to receive upgrades to its avionics and radar systems.
- The aircraft may also receive new armament options, including hypersonic missiles.
- The Su-34 is expected to remain in service with the Russian Air Force until the 2040s.
In conclusion, the Su-34 Fullback bomber is a highly advanced multi-role fighter aircraft with a range of capabilities. Its advanced avionics and radar systems, combined with its powerful engines and comprehensive defensive systems, make it a formidable opponent on the battlefield. With its future development plans, the Su-34 is expected to remain in service with the Russian Air Force for many years to come.
Su-34 Fullback Bomber Image Gallery
What is the Su-34 Fullback bomber?
+The Su-34 Fullback bomber is a multi-role, twin-engine fighter aircraft designed by Russia's Sukhoi company.
What is the top speed of the Su-34 Fullback bomber?
+The top speed of the Su-34 Fullback bomber is Mach 1.8 (2,200 km/h or 1,367 mph).
What is the range of the Su-34 Fullback bomber?
+The range of the Su-34 Fullback bomber is 4,000 km (2,500 miles).