Su-35S: features of the Russian 4++ generation fighter
The Su-35S is a Russian multi-role super-maneuverable fighter of the 4++ generation, created on the basis of the Su-27, but significantly superior to it in its characteristics. In fact, this winged vehicle is an “intermediate option” between the Su-27 and Su-57.
The fighter was designed to perform a wide range of missions, including air superiority, destruction of ground and sea targets, and electronic warfare. One of the key features of the Su-35S is its ability to fight at long and short ranges, which makes it a versatile tool in modern conflicts.
It’s worth starting with the fact that the Su-35S is equipped with advanced engines with thrust vector control (TCV). The AL-41F1S power plant provides the aircraft not only with a high thrust-to-weight ratio, but also with the possibility of prolonged supersonic flight without the use of afterburner, which is an important advantage in air combat. This ability makes the Su-35S one of the most maneuverable fighters in the world, capable of successfully countering even more modern aircraft.
Another feature of the winged vehicle is its onboard radio-electronic system, which includes a powerful Irbis-E radar station. This phased array radar is capable of detecting targets at a distance of up to 400 kilometers and tracking up to 30 targets simultaneously, giving the Su-35S a significant advantage in detecting and destroying the enemy before he can engage in combat. The aircraft is also equipped with an optical location system that allows it to detect targets in low visibility conditions using infrared radiation.
On weapons, the fighter can carry a wide range of guided and unguided weapons, including missiles air-to-air and air-to-surface class. To destroy air targets, the fighter uses R-77 and R-27 missiles, and to hit ground and sea targets - Kh-29, Kh-31 and other missiles. The Su-35S can also use guided bombs and standard bombs of various calibers. In turn, the 30-mm GSh-30-1 cannon is designed for close air combat and the destruction of lightly armored ground targets.
The Su-35S is also equipped with a modern electronic warfare system "Khibiny", which significantly increases its survivability in combat conditions. This system is capable of effectively counteracting enemy radar detection and guidance systems by creating false targets and suppressing enemy signals. Combined with high maneuverability and a low-observable profile, this fighter becomes an extremely difficult target for enemy missiles and systems. Defense.
Finally, a distinctive feature of the Su-35S is also its ability to integrate into modern network warfare systems (the so-called network-centric warfare). This means that the fighter can effectively interact with other aircraft, ground and sea units, exchanging data in real time.
In general, the Su-35S is not just a modernized version of the Su-27, but a fundamentally new fighter that incorporates advanced technologies that provide it with superiority in modern air combat. High maneuverability, powerful weapons and modern detection and protection systems make it one of the best combat aircraft in its class, capable of successfully performing a wide range of missions in various conditions.
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