The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), part of Rostec State Corporation, has delivered the first batch of new Su-35S multirole fighters to the Russian Aerospace Forces this year. These advanced 4++ generation aircraft have undergone rigorous factory testing, been thoroughly inspected by technical personnel, and evaluated across various operational modes by pilots from Russia’s Ministry of Defense. The newly delivered jets have successfully completed their transfer flights to their designated airbases.The Su-35S, often referred to as “Flanker-E” or “Super Flanker” by NATO, represents a critical milestone in modern military aviation. Designed by the renowned Sukhoi Design Bureau and manufactured by UAC, the Su-35S is widely regarded as one of the most capable air superiority fighters currently in service. Equipped with cutting-edge weaponry and long-range targeting systems, it boasts exceptional maneuverability (+9g) and can operate under both simple and adverse weather conditions, making it a formidable asset for aerial dominance, ground attack missions, and maritime strikes.
According to Vladimir Artyakov, First Deputy General Director of Rostec, “Our aircraft manufacturers are diligently fulfilling their obligations to supply troops with state-of-the-art aviation equipment. We’ve handed over the first serial-production fighters of this year. Currently, additional batches of aviation complexes are at varying stages of completion and will be delivered as part of this year’s state defense order.” He further emphasized the high regard pilots hold for the Su-35S, noting its ability to conduct missions far from base while maintaining superior combat capabilities.
Vadim Badekha, CEO of UAC, highlighted the need to accelerate manufacturing to meet increasing demand. “Our top priority is to boost the pace of production for sought-after military hardware,” he stated. “This applies particularly to our flagship models. To achieve this, we will continue expanding our facilities and investing in workforce development.”
Described as a transitional model toward fifth-generation fighter jets like the Su-57, the Su-35S incorporates several advanced features that set it apart from its predecessors. Its powerplant includes new engines with digital control systems and thrust vectoring technology, significantly enhancing flight performance and agility. These improvements make the Su-35S not only an evolutionary step beyond the Su-27 but also a bridge to future innovations in combat aviation. The announcement underscores ongoing efforts to ramp up production rates for key aircraft models, including the Su-34, Su-35, and Su-57. One challenge facing producers is ensuring sufficient skilled labor to keep up with rising output targets. Factories are actively addressing bottlenecks through technological upgrades and training programs aimed at improving worker qualifications. By streamlining production processes and integrating new technologies, UAC aims to maintain momentum in delivering these vital assets to the armed forces.
Beyond domestic use, the Su-35S has garnered international attention. In 2015, China placed an order for 24 Su-35S units for its People’s Liberation Army Air Force, underscoring the global appeal of Russian-made fighters. With its unmatched combination of speed, range, and firepower, the Su-35S continues to attract interest from nations seeking to bolster their airpower capabilities. The recent delivery of Su-35S fighters reaffirms Russia’s commitment to advancing its aerospace industry and equipping its military with world-class technology. As geopolitical tensions persist and competition in the skies intensifies, the Su-35S stands out as a symbol of innovation and resilience—a testament to the enduring legacy of Soviet-era engineering combined with contemporary advancements. While critics may question the strategic implications of such developments, proponents argue that maintaining a robust defense posture is essential for national security. For now, the Su-35S remains a cornerstone of Russia’s air force modernization program, bridging the gap between legacy platforms and next-generation fighters. As production ramps up and more squadrons receive these cutting-edge jets, the Su-35S will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aerial warfare—not just for Russia but potentially for allied nations worldwide.
