Only half of the fleet of 4+ generation Su-30MK2 multirole fighters transferred by Russia to Venezuela are airworthy. Will Russian specialists help with the modernization of the aircraft? Military expert Brandon J. Weichert raised this question in an article for The National Interest.
Venezuela purchased approximately 24 Su-30MK2 aircraft from Russia in 2006. The deal was estimated at $2.2 billion.
The new fighters were based at Captain Manuel Rios Air Base in El Sombrero, Guarico State.
The Su-30MK2s are considered the most advanced fighters available to Venezuela. However, the country saved on the maintenance of Russian aircraft.
Su-30MK2 Specifications:
- Wingspan - 14.7 m
- Length - 21.9 m
- Aircraft height - 6.4 m
- Normal takeoff weight - 24,900 kg
- Engines - 2 AL-31F turbofan engines
- Maximum speed - 2100 km/h
- Practical range with one aerial refueling - 5600 km
- Service ceiling - 17,300 m
The Su-30MK2's armament includes a 30 mm GSh-301 cannon. 8000 kg of combat load is suspended on 12 pylons. The fighter carries R-27R, R-77, X-29T/L, X-25ML, X-25LD missiles, KAB-500KR, KAB-1500KR bombs.
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