The Sukhoi Su-27 (NATO reporting name: Flanker)

Is a legendary Soviet-era fighter jet designed to counter American 4th-generation fighters like the F-15 Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon. Here’s an overview of its history:

Development Origins

Concept and Need: In the 1960s-70s, the U.S. developed high-performance fighters like the F-15. The Soviet Union needed a comparable air superiority fighter to maintain aerial balance during the Cold War.

Design Bureau: The Sukhoi Design Bureau was tasked with the project in 1969. The design was part of the Soviet PFI (Prospective Frontline Fighter) program.

Prototype and Testing: The first prototype, designated T-10, flew in 1977, but it faced stability and performance issues. After significant redesign, the improved prototype T-10S emerged in 1981, forming the foundation of the production Su-27.

Key Features

Air Superiority Role: The Su-27 was primarily designed for long-range air combat but proved versatile for multiple roles.

Aerodynamics: It features advanced aerodynamics, including a blended wing-body design, making it highly maneuverable, capable of executing complex maneuvers like the famous Cobra.

Range and Payload: With a range of 3,530 km and an impressive payload capacity, the Su-27 excels in deep penetration missions.

Avionics and Armament: Equipped with a powerful radar, modern avionics, and weapons like the R-27 and R-73 missiles, it is a formidable adversary.

Operational History

Introduction: Entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1985.

Global Use: The Su-27 has been exported to countries like China, India, Vietnam, and Angola. It is highly regarded for its adaptability.

Notable Engagements: While the Su-27 itself hasn’t seen extensive combat, its derivatives (e.g., Su-30, Su-35) have been used in conflicts like the Syrian Civil War.

Derivatives and Modernization

The Su-27 has led to the development of various advanced aircraft, including:

Su-30: Multi-role fighter with enhanced avionics and dual-pilot capability.

Su-33: Naval variant designed for aircraft carriers.

Su-35: Highly modernized version with 4.5-generation capabilities.

Shenyang J-11: Chinese version produced under license with local modifications.

Legacy

The Su-27 is celebrated for its elegance, raw power, and agility. It’s not just a military machine but a symbol of Soviet technological achievement, continuing to influence fighter design worldwide.

Features

-Thrust Vectoring Technology
-Powerful weapons
-Powerful engines
-Modified Cockpit
-Strong Landing Gear

Air Group

AG-1 : Formation Light
AG-2 : Parachute
AG-3 : Drop R-73
AG-4 : Drop R-77
AG-5 : Drop Bombs
AG-6 : Drop AirToGround Missile
AG-7 : *I FORGOT
AG-8 : Engine, Thrust Vectoring, Light, Electrical

Weapon List

-4× R-77 Adder
-4× FAB-500 M62
-2× R-73 Archer
-2× KH-59MK2
-Single Gun Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-30-1 (30mm)

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