OVERVIEW: The Su-35K Flanker E is a single-seat, twin-engine, 4.5 generation multirole air superiority fighter developed by Sukhoi. Exported to the PLAAF in 2018, it combines high maneuverability, long range, and advanced avionics without incorporating stealth shaping.

DETAILS: Based on the Su-27 platform, the Su-35K features an airframe with extensive airframe reinforcement, thrust-vectoring 117S engines (Mach 2.25 max speed), and an internal fuel capacity increased by over 20%. It has 12 hardpoints and is equipped with the Irbis-E PESA radar, L175M Khibiny-M ECM system, and an OLS-35 IRST sensor. The aircraft is capable of deploying PL-10 and R-77 air-to-air missiles, Kh-31 and Kh-59 strike missiles, and KAB-series guided bombs. The Su-35K sold to China included a Russian avionics suite and Russian weapons compatibility. Flanker E is the NATO reporting name for the Su-35.

“Su” designates Sukhoi, and “35K” is the export model of the Su-35S delivered to China. The aircraft was procured to supplement China’s domestic fighter fleet with a long-range, high-endurance platform pending full deployment of indigenous fifth-generation assets.

TYPE: Multirole air superiority fighter

FUNCTION: The Su-35K is used for long-range air superiority, maritime patrol, and multirole strike missions. Its supermaneuverability, radar range, and large payload make it suited for extended operations over maritime and border regions.

NOTE:
IOC: Su-27 (1985 Russia), Su-35S (2014 Russia), Su-35K (2018 China)
Manufacturer: Sukhoi (Russia)
Operators: China
Conflict used in: Not confirmed

SOURCE:
Russian Ministry of Defence ; United Aircraft Corporation: https://www.uacrussia.ru ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org ; Flight Global World Air Forces 2019 ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; TASS: https://tass.com/defense