OVERVIEW: The Su-30MK2 Flanker G is a twin-engine, two-seat, 4th generation multirole fighter developed by Sukhoi for export customers, with extended range and maritime strike capability. Venezuela procured the Su-30MK2 to reinforce its air defense, deterrence, and multirole strike capabilities in the Western Hemisphere.

DETAILS: The Su-30MK2 is a modernized export variant of the Su-30 series, developed from the Su-27UB airframe and optimized for both air superiority and strike missions, including anti-ship operations. It is powered by two AL-31F turbofan engines, enabling a top speed of approximately Mach 2.0, and features 12 hardpoints for a wide mix of air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons. The aircraft is equipped with the N001VEP pulse-Doppler radar, allowing integration of R-77 active radar-guided missiles, Kh-31A/P anti-ship missiles, and Kh-29T/L precision strike weapons. Standard onboard systems include an IRST sensor, internal radar warning receiver, and electronic countermeasure capability. Venezuela ordered 24 Su-30MK2s beginning in 2006, with deliveries completed by 2008. Flanker-G is the NATO reporting name assigned to this variant of the Su-30 family.

“Su” refers to the Sukhoi design bureau, while “MK2” stands for “Modernizirovannyi Kommercheskiy 2” (Modernized Commercial version 2), marking it as an upgraded export configuration. Compared to earlier Su-30MKs, the MK2 adds improved fire-control systems and radar modes to support maritime strike roles and guided munitions. Venezuela’s aircraft include equipment for long-range patrols, precision targeting, and heavy ordnance loads adapted to national airspace defense and regional reach.

TYPE: Multirole maritime strike fighter

FUNCTION: The Su-30MK2 is used by Venezuela for long-range air defense, deterrent patrols, and precision strike missions, offering a flexible multirole capability with maritime attack capacity. Its range, sensors, and payload make it central to the country's air combat force structure.

NOTE:
IOC: Su-27UB (1985), Su-30 (1992), Su-30MK2 (2008 Venezuela)
Manufacturer: Sukhoi (Russia)
Operators: Venezuela
Conflict used in: None

SOURCE:
Venezuelan Ministry of People's Power for 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 2009