Moscow, November 12. Sukhoi Company conducts flight tests of serial Su-34
fighter bombers at the Chkalov Aviation Production Association (NAPO) flight
testing station in Novosibirsk. Serial production of the Su-34 has been set
up at the NAPO plant, which is a part of the Sukhoi holding company. The
Russian Air Force already has in service several Su-34s. Another consignment
of such planes is due by the end of the year.
In 2008 a state contract was signed with the government to supply the
Russian Defense Ministry with Su-34 serial-production aircraft.
The Su-34 can effectively attack land-based, sea- and airborne targets by
day and night in all weathers using the entire suite of its airborne
munitions, including high-precision types. In terms of operational
capabilities this is a 4+ aircraft. Its active safety system, along with the
newest computers, provides extra capabilities for the pilot and navigator to
perform aimed bombing and to maneuver under enemy fire. The excellent
aerodynamics, large capacity internal fuel tanks, fuel-efficient bypass
engines with a digital control system, in-flight refueling device and add-on
fuel tanks enable the aircraft to fly long distances close to those of
medium strategic bombers.
The aircraft features an outstanding flight performance, maintainability and
maneuverability. It has long-range aiming systems and modern onboard devices
for communications and information exchange with on-land control posts,
ground troops, surface ships and in-flight aircraft. It is fitted with a
smart anti-radar defense system. The Su-34 has a sophisticated survival
system, including an armored cockpit. The aircraft can perform missions at a
low altitude in by-pass and fly-by modes.
Last July Su-34s proved their high combat capabilities and flight
performance at the Vostok-2010 military exercises. The aircraft successfully
hit mock targets in the Russian Far East after flying non-stop all the way
from a base in the European part of Russia. The mission involved a mid-air
refueling operation.
Su-34's combat potential will be enhanced soon by new airborne munitions.