OVERVIEW: The Su-30MKK Flanker G is a twin-engine, two-seat, 4th generation multirole fighter developed by Sukhoi for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) of China. The 2018-standard aircraft retained its long-range strike role with integration of the Chinese YJ-91 anti-radiation missile and expanded domestic munitions compatibility.

DETAILS: The Su-30MKK is based on the Su-27UB airframe and optimized for multirole missions with emphasis on ground and maritime strike. It is powered by two AL-31F engines with a top speed of Mach 2.0, and fitted with 12 external hardpoints capable of carrying R-77 and R-73 air-to-air missiles, Kh-29T/L, Kh-31P/A, KAB-500L bombs, and Chinese weapons including the YJ-91 (a licensed Kh-31P derivative). The aircraft is equipped with the N001VEP radar modified for air-to-surface and maritime attack modes, alongside an IRST sensor, internal RWR, ECM systems, and a helmet-mounted sight. By 2018, Su-30MKK units had been fully integrated into long-range strike regiments of the PLAAF, with multiple aircraft adapted to carry YJ-91 for suppression of enemy air defenses. Flanker-G is the NATO reporting name assigned to this Su-30 variant.

“Su” designates Sukhoi, “MK” means “Modernizirovannyi Kommercheskiy” (Modernized Commercial), and “K” refers to Kitayskiy (Chinese). The Su-30MKK lacks canards and thrust-vectoring but features reinforced airframe structures and upgraded fire-control systems to support heavy guided munitions and anti-ship strike. The integration of YJ-91 by 2018 expanded its SEAD capability and provided China with a platform capable of long-range electronic suppression and strike penetration roles.

TYPE: Multirole strike fighter

FUNCTION: The Su-30MKK is used by China for multirole missions with a focus on maritime strike, land attack, and SEAD. Its ability to carry large loads, including YJ-91, makes it a key platform for standoff targeting and deep strike operations.

NOTE:
IOC: Su-27UB (1985), Su-30 (1992), Su-30MKK (2001 China)
Manufacturer: Sukhoi (Russia)
Operators: China
Conflict used in: None

SOURCE:
Chinese Ministry of National Defense ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; Piotr Butowski – Russia’s Warplanes Vol. 1 ; United Aircraft Corporation: https://www.uacrussia.ru ; Sukhoi Company: https://www.sukhoi.org ; Flight Global World Air Forces 2018