The Su-35S was supposed to be a deep modernization of the Su-27 family and a temporary solution until the mass appearance of the 5th generation Su-57 fighter. However, years after the start of deliveries, it remains one of the most sought-after Russian combat aircraft.
Let's figure out how many such machines Russia has and why the Su-35S received a large production run.
Why did the Su-35S go into production?
The main advantage of the Su-35S was its reliance on the already proven Su-27 platform. Engineers managed to retain the strengths of the heavy fighter — long range, high payload, and maneuverability — while simultaneously updating almost all onboard electronics.
The Ministry of Defence concluded the first serial contract for 48 Su-35S in 2009. New purchases followed. Unlike the MiG-35, the aircraft received large domestic orders and export interest.
The Su-35S can carry up to 8 tons of weapons on 12 hardpoints, has a maximum takeoff weight of about 34.5 tons and a flight range of up to 3600 km with external fuel tanks.
How many Su-35S does Russia have?
According to open sources, the Russian Aerospace Forces have received more than 155 Su-35S fighters. The main deliveries occurred between 2012, when serial production began at the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Plant.
The aircraft received AL-41F1S engines with thrust up to 14,500 kgf in afterburner, the "Irbis-E" radar complex, and the ability to use a wide range of modern aviation weapons.
Why was the Su-35S still needed even after the appearance of the Su-57?
The Su-35S occupied a niche between modernized Su-30SMs and the new Su-57. It is cheaper and simpler to produce, but at the same time has capabilities that are sufficient for most combat missions.
Producing serial Su-35S is much faster than deploying the assembly of a fundamentally new fighter.