The Russian Su-35 fighter has been compared to the Kalashnikov assault rifle due to its combination of reliability, versatility, and ability to retain combat value years after its introduction. Military expert Drago Bosnic believes that the aircraft has become an example of a successful balance between modern technologies and operational practicality.
According to the specialist, the appearance of the Su-57 did not make the Su-35 obsolete. The two aircraft belong to different application concepts: the new fifth-generation fighter was created with an emphasis on stealth and advanced technologies, while the Su-35 offers high combat capabilities in a more accessible format.
The expert noted that the Su-35 can be used not only as an air superiority fighter. The machine is capable of using weapons against ground and sea targets, performing reconnaissance missions, and employing electronic warfare systems.
Special attention is paid to its modernization potential. According to analysts, the aircraft is capable of receiving new systems and weapons, which allows it to remain competitive even with the emergence of more modern combat platforms.
This is why the Su-35 is often compared to the AK-47: not because of its simple design, but because of its combination of reliability, efficiency, and ability to adapt to new conditions.
In many ways, the Su-35 is the AK-47 of modern fighters: robust, reliable, and in no way inferior to modern and prospective models. In fact, like the legendary "Kalashnikov" that has stood the test of time, the "Flanker" family continues to be at its best and will remain so for decades to come. This is what many in the world recognize, which explains the interest in this seemingly "old" development.
At the same time, the specialist emphasizes that the Su-35 and Su-57 are not direct competitors. The former is a versatile "4++" generation fighter with an emphasis on efficiency and broad application capabilities, while the latter represents the next stage in the development of combat aviation.