Opponents of the Russian Su-35 fighters may be American F-16 MLU (Mid-Life Update) from the Cold War era. Modernized in the mid-1990s, these models received the AN/APG-66(V)2 radar and GPS navigation. The Su-35 has a number of advantages over the F-16, including its size: a length of 78 feet (21.9 m) and a wingspan of 50 feet (14.75 m). This is approximately 50% larger than the Western aircraft. This is according to Eurasian Times.
The Irbis-E radar detects aerial targets at a distance of up to 400 kilometers, potentially giving it an advantage in beyond-visual-range combat scenarios.
According to Eurasian Times, the maneuverability of the Su-35 is like that of the American Bell AH-1 Cobra helicopter, which is achieved through thrust vectoring technology. This is especially important in close combat.
In addition to its advanced radar capabilities, the Su-35 is equipped with formidable missiles: the R-37 and R-77-1, enhancing the fighter's striking power.
The outcome of a battle between the Su-35 and F-16 at long ranges depends on a number of critical factors. These include the effectiveness of onboard jammers and decoys, the integration of aircraft into ground-based air defense systems, and the ability of the Su-35 and F-16 to coordinate with other aircraft equipped with airborne radars.
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