The Russian Su-34 with the Kh-101 missile could gain new capabilities for long-range strikes. This conclusion was reached by Defence Security Asia, after analyzing the prospects of using the front-line bomber with long-range weaponry.

The authors of the publication note that the combination of the Su-34's range with the capabilities of the Kh-101 missile potentially allows targets to be hit at a significantly greater distance than with conventional weapons. This is why the publication uses the term "intercontinental fighter-bomber" in relation to the aircraft, emphasizing not a change in the machine's class, but the possible range of strike missions.

At the same time, Defence Security Asia emphasizes that there is no official confirmation of the adoption of this configuration. The material is based on an analysis of open data and expert assessments, which suggest that the integration of the Kh-101 could significantly change the Su-34's capabilities in striking remote targets.

The topic of expanding the Su-34's strike capabilities through long-range missiles has been discussed for several years. As early as September 2023, industry sources reported that front-line bombers in the Su-34NVO ("new capabilities") version had been adapted for the use of long-range cruise missiles.

In December 2024, military expert Evgeny Damantsev directly admitted the integration of the Kh-101 and "Kalibr-A" into the Su-34's ammunition, indicating that the structural and software-hardware adaptation of the weapon systems is already underway. According to his assessment, the aircraft is quite capable of carrying strategic cruise missiles, among others, given that the Su-34 has already confirmed compatibility with the hypersonic "Kinzhal".

Earlier, "Pervy Tekhnichesky" reported that front-line Su-34 bombers began using unusual tactics. The aircraft perform approaches at short distances, simulate dropping guided aerial bombs, and check the enemy's reaction without actually using weapons.