Russia has lost about 25% of its aircraft fleet, according to a report by the American non-profit research organization RAND. This was written by military expert Maya Karlin in an article for The National Interest publication.
According to Karlin, pilots of the Russian Aerospace Forces often use Su-35 and Su-34 fighters in operations.
The Sukhoi Design Bureau was tasked with developing an aircraft capable of withstanding American fourth-generation fighters. The Su-35 has engines with controlled thrust vectoring and a reduced radar signature, which makes it effective.
Su-34 is another fighter-bomber that Karlin drew attention to.
Perhaps what really distinguishes the Su-34 is its lethality. It can carry various payloads on 12 hardpoints. The aircraft is also equipped with a GSh-30 cannon.
Karlin suggested that the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter could play a leading role in any offensive operation by the Russian Aerospace Forces. Compared to the American F-35, it has an advantage in speed, but is inferior in stealth technologies.
The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation regularly reports on the replenishment of the aircraft fleet of the Russian Aerospace Forces. Aircraft factories are increasing the production of new generation aircraft and developing advanced aviation complexes.
