The Sukhoi Su-34, also known by its NATO reporting name “Fullback,” is a Russian twin-engine, all-weather supersonic medium-range fighter-bomber/strike aircraft. It is designed primarily for tactical deployment against ground and naval targets (tactical bombing/attack/interdiction roles), including against small and mobile targets on the battlefield. The Su-34 is also capable of air superiority missions and can engage aerial targets.

Key Features and Capabilities:

1. Airframe and Design:
   • The Su-34 features a highly aerodynamic design with a side-by-side seating arrangement for the pilot and co-pilot, which is unique among modern fighter jets.
   • It has a full-featured flight deck with advanced ergonomics, allowing for increased comfort during long missions.
   • The aircraft is designed for high survivability, incorporating an armored cockpit to protect the crew from small-arms fire and shrapnel.
2. Engines:
   • Powered by two Saturn AL-31FM1 turbofan engines, which provide a thrust of 13,500 kgf each.
   • The Su-34 can achieve a maximum speed of Mach 1.8 and has a combat radius of approximately 1,100 kilometers (684 miles) without refueling, which can be extended with in-flight refueling.
3. Avionics and Sensors:
   • Equipped with a powerful radar system, the Leninets B004, capable of terrain-following and terrain-avoidance, which enhances its capability to perform low-level penetration strikes.
   • Features an advanced electronic warfare suite to counter enemy radar and missile threats.
   • Includes the Khibiny electronic countermeasures (ECM) system, which improves survivability against enemy air defenses.
4. Weapons and Armament:
   • The Su-34 has 12 hardpoints for carrying a wide range of weapons, including air-to-ground missiles, air-to-air missiles, guided bombs, and unguided munitions.
   • Capable of carrying Kh-31P anti-radiation missiles, Kh-35U anti-ship missiles, and various guided bombs for precision strikes.
   • Armed with a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon for close-in combat and ground attack missions.
5. Operational Capabilities:
   • Designed for all-weather, day-and-night operations with the ability to deliver precision-guided munitions.
   • Capable of performing a variety of missions including tactical bombing, interdiction, suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), and air superiority roles.
   • The aircraft can operate from unprepared airfields, giving it flexibility in deployment.

Operational Use:

• The Su-34 is operated by the Russian Air Force and has been deployed in various combat operations, including in Syria, where it demonstrated its strike capabilities and versatility.
• It plays a key role in Russia’s tactical air power, providing a bridge between strategic bombers and smaller, more agile fighters.

Comparisons and Capabilities:

• The Su-34 is often compared to Western counterparts such as the F-15E Strike Eagle and the Panavia Tornado in terms of its strike capabilities.
• While the Su-34 may not have the same level of stealth technology as some newer aircraft, its advanced avionics, robust design, and versatile weaponry make it a formidable platform for a wide range of missions.

Future Developments:

• Continuous upgrades to avionics, weapons systems, and defensive aids are expected to keep the Su-34 relevant in modern combat scenarios.
• Potential enhancements include integration of new precision-guided munitions and improved electronic warfare capabilities.

The Sukhoi Su-34 is a highly capable and versatile aircraft that significantly enhances the tactical strike capabilities of the Russian Air Force. Its advanced avionics, powerful engines, and robust design make it well-suited for a wide range of combat missions.