The Sukhoi Su-34, also known as the “Fullback” by its NATO reporting name, is a modern, twin-engine, twin-seat, all-weather supersonic medium-range fighter-bomber/strike aircraft developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau in Russia. The Su-34 is designed to replace the aging Sukhoi Su-24 and is capable of performing a wide range of missions, including precision strikes, close air support, and interdiction roles.
Development and Design
The development of the Su-34 began in the 1980s as a derivative of the Sukhoi Su-27, aimed at creating a more capable strike platform with advanced avionics and enhanced survivability. The Su-34 made its first flight in 1990 and entered service with the Russian Air Force in the mid-2000s.
Key Features:
- Wingspan: 14.7 meters
- Length: 23.34 meters
- Height: 6.09 meters
- Max Takeoff Weight: 45,100 kg
- Powerplant: Twin Saturn AL-31FM1 turbofan engines
- Thrust: 132 kN (29,762 lbf) each with afterburner
Performance
The Su-34’s performance characteristics are designed to provide a high degree of agility and endurance, enabling it to conduct long-range strike missions with precision.
Specifications:
- Maximum Speed: Mach 1.8+ (1,900 km/h, 1,180 mph)
- Range: 4,000 km (2,485 miles) without refueling; can be extended with aerial refueling
- Service Ceiling: 15,000 meters (49,200 feet)
- Rate of Climb: 280 meters per second
Armament
The Su-34 is equipped with a versatile array of weaponry, allowing it to engage a wide range of targets with high precision.
Armament:
- Gun: 1 × 30 mm GSh-30-1 cannon with 180 rounds
- Missiles:
- Air-to-Air: R-77 (AA-12 Adder), R-73 (AA-11 Archer)
- Air-to-Surface: Kh-29 (AS-14 Kedge), Kh-31 (AS-17 Krypton), Kh-58 (AS-11 Kilter), Kh-59 (AS-13 Kingbolt), Kh-35 (AS-20 Kayak)
- Anti-Ship: Kh-41 Moskit (SS-N-22 Sunburn), Kh-35 (AS-20 Kayak)
- Anti-Radiation: Kh-31P (AS-17 Krypton), Kh-58 (AS-11 Kilter)
- Bombs/Rockets: Various guided and unguided bombs, rockets, and other munitions, up to 12,000 kg on 12 hardpoints
Avionics and Technology
The Su-34 incorporates advanced avionics and systems to enhance its operational capabilities and survivability.
Avionics:
- Radar: V004 multifunction radar for air-to-air and air-to-ground targeting
- IRST (Infrared Search and Track): Provides passive detection and tracking of targets
- Glass Cockpit: Modern multifunctional displays and heads-up display (HUD)
- Fly-by-Wire Control System: Enhances maneuverability and stability
- Defensive Systems: Includes electronic countermeasures, radar warning receivers, and chaff/flare dispensers
Unique Features
The Su-34 features several unique design elements tailored for its strike role and crew comfort:
- Armored Cockpit: The cockpit is heavily armored to protect the crew from small arms fire and shrapnel.
- Side-by-Side Seating: The pilots sit side-by-side in the cockpit, which is unusual for a fighter aircraft but provides better communication and coordination.
- Extended Range: Equipped with internal fuel tanks and aerial refueling capability for extended missions.
- Comfort Features: The cockpit is designed for long-duration missions, including amenities like a galley and a toilet.
Operational History
The Su-34 has been extensively used by the Russian Air Force and has seen combat in various conflicts, including the Syrian Civil War. Its operational history showcases its versatility and effectiveness in different combat scenarios.
Key Missions:
- Syrian Civil War: Conducted precision strikes against terrorist targets and provided close air support to ground forces.
- Ukraine Conflict: Utilized for strategic bombing and interdiction missions.
Conclusion
The Sukhoi Su-34 Fullback is a highly capable multirole fighter-bomber that combines advanced avionics, powerful performance, and versatile armament to perform a wide range of missions. Its unique design features and advanced technology make it a formidable asset for the Russian Air Force and an important component of modern aerial warfare. The Su-34 continues to play a critical role in various military operations, demonstrating its effectiveness and reliability as a strike platform.
