OVERVIEW: The Su-33 Flanker D is a twin-engine, single-seat, 4th generation carrier-based air superiority fighter developed by Sukhoi for the Russian Navy. Introduced in 1995, it is a navalized derivative of the Su-27, optimized for operations from aircraft carriers with reinforced structure and folding wings.

DETAILS: The Su-33 is based on the Su-27UB airframe and modified for carrier operations with strengthened landing gear, tailhook, and larger wings with folding tips, powered by AL-31F engines reaching speeds over Mach 2.1. It is equipped with 12 hardpoints and features the Slot Back-R radar (N001K), OLS-27 IRST, digital RWR, internal ECM system, and naval communication systems. Armament includes R-73 and R-27 variants for air-to-air combat, unguided bombs and rockets, and Kh-31 for limited anti-ship or strike capability. It also includes an onboard refueling probe and compatibility with the ski-jump ramp of the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier. Naval designation “Su-27K” was replaced with Su-33 when it officially entered service. Flanker D is the NATO reporting name for the Su-33.

“Su” denotes Sukhoi, and “33” identifies the naval variant of the Flanker series. Unlike land-based Su-27 variants, the Su-33 is specifically built for carrier-based air superiority roles and includes modifications for high-load carrier landings, short takeoffs, and maritime mission support. It lacks modern radar or multirole precision strike capability found in later derivatives.

Type: Carrier-based multirole fighter (primarily air superiority)

FUNCTION: The Su-33 is used for fleet air defense, combat air patrol, and limited maritime strike. Its long range and carrier-operational capability allow it to provide air superiority over sea from the Russian Navy’s sole aircraft carrier.

NOTE:
IOC: Su-27UB (1985), Su-27K/Su-33 (1995 Russia)
Manufacturer: Sukhoi (Russia)
Operators: Russia
Conflict used in: Syrian operations (2016, off Admiral Kuznetsov)

SOURCE:
Russian Ministry of Defence ; United Aircraft Corporation: https://www.uacrussia.ru ; TASS Russia: https://tass.com/defense ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; Flight Global World Air Forces 1996