From the early nineties to 2015, arms trade between China and Russia reached $30 billion. During this period, 80% of weapons and equipment were imported by China from Russia. For the PLA Air Force, 76 all-weather supersonic heavy fourth-generation Su-27 fighters were purchased, which greatly helped Beijing with the production of its own aircraft. This is according to Bulgarian Military.
Relying on the Su-27, as well as the more advanced Su-30 fighters, China has achieved remarkable success in the production of its own combat aircraft, such as the J-11 and J-16. Many Chinese experts believe that, although the roots of the Su-27 originate in Russia, its most powerful version — the Su-27SM3 — is in China.
According to Bulgarian Military, the modified Su-27SM3 fighter is equipped with an AL-31F engine. Chinese engineers have improved the aircraft's performance, made it more fuel-efficient, and improved its operational characteristics.
China has made significant progress in the development of avionics for the Su-27SM3 fighters. This includes advanced multi-functional displays, digital flight control systems, and upgraded navigation systems.
The Chinese Su-27SM3 carries a versatile set of modern air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. It includes PL-12 and PL-15 air-to-air missiles, known for their impressive range and accuracy. In addition, this aircraft can be equipped with the latest high-precision ammunition.
The radar systems of the Chinese Su-27SM3 have also undergone significant modernization. All these improvements elevate the Chinese Su-27SM3 above the Russian Su-27.
New weapons and avionics, superior radar capabilities provide the Su-27SM3 with air superiority.
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