OVERVIEW: The Su‑30 Flanker C is a twin-engine, two-seat, supersonic, 4th‑generation multirole fighter/interceptor introduced into Russian Air Force service in 1993. It was developed for long-range air superiority, escort, and strike missions, featuring advanced avionics and self-protection systems.

DETAILS: The Su‑30 Flanker C (initial variant designated Su‑27PU) evolved from the Su‑27UB trainer to fulfill long‑range interception and precision strike roles. It is powered by two Lyulka‑Saturn AL‑37FU afterburning turbofan engines, capable of reaching Mach 2 at altitude and around Mach 1 at sea level. The aircraft carries a 30 mm GSh‑30‑1 cannon and can be armed on up to 12 hardpoints with missiles like R‑27 (AA‑10) for medium range and R‑73 (AA‑11) for short range, as well as air-to-surface munitions. Confirmed sensors and systems include the N‑101 “Slot Back” pulse-Doppler radar, OLS‑27 IRST, SPO‑15 “Beryoza” radar warning receiver, and SPS‑171/172 “Sorbtsiya” ECM suite. It has a maximum weapons payload around 8,000 kg.

The Su‑30 designation indicates its evolution from the Su‑27 family. Retained the same basic airframe and engine as the Su‑27 but incorporated expanded avionics, increased endurance, and in-flight refueling capability. It did not feature the advanced multirole capabilities of later variants like the Su‑30MKI or Su‑30SM, but emphasized range and endurance for national airspace defense.

TYPE: Multirole air superiority fighter

FUNCTION: The Flanker C was deployed for roles including long-range escort, air superiority, and limited precision strike. It remained in Russian service throughout the 1990s before being superseded by advanced derivatives.

NOTE:
IOC: Su‑27 (1985), Su‑30 Flanker G (1993)
Manufacturer: Sukhoi (Russia)
Operators: Russia
Conflict used in: None confirmed

SOURCE:
Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sukhoi_Su-30 ; Russian Aircraft Corporation Sukhoi ; Air Force Technology