OVERVIEW: The Su-35S Flanker M is a single-seat, twin-engine, 4.5 generation multirole air superiority fighter developed by Sukhoi for the Russian Air Force. In 2020, it became capable of deploying both R-37M long-range air-to-air missiles and UMPK glide kits, enhancing its effectiveness in both air combat and precision strike roles.

DETAILS: The Su-35S is a modernized derivative of the Su-27 featuring a strengthened airframe, digital quadruplex fly-by-wire system, and two AL-41F1S thrust-vectoring turbofan engines, achieving speeds up to Mach 2.25. It is fitted with 12 hardpoints, the Irbis-E PESA radar, OLS-35 infrared search and track system, and the L-265V Khibiny-MV internal electronic warfare suite. The aircraft carries R-73M and R-77-1 air-to-air missiles, Kh-31P/A and Kh-59MK air-to-surface missiles, and KAB-series precision-guided bombs. In 2020, it began using the R-37M long-range air-to-air missile with an estimated range reaching 300 km and introduced UMPK (Universal Glide and Correction Module) kits to convert FAB-series general-purpose bombs into guided glide bombs. Flanker M is the NATO reporting name for the Su-35S.

“Su” identifies the Sukhoi design bureau, and “35S” designates the serial production variant for the Russian Air Force. The combination of R-37M and UMPK-equipped munitions significantly extended the Su-35S’s reach against both airborne and ground targets.

TYPE: Multirole air superiority fighter

FUNCTION: The Su-35S is used for air superiority, long-range interception, and precision standoff strike. The addition of the R-37M and UMPK kits allows the aircraft to defeat high-value air targets and attack fortified positions from beyond enemy air defense coverage.

NOTE:
IOC: Su-27 (1985 Russia), Su-35S (2014 Russia)
Manufacturer: Sukhoi (Russia)
Operators: Russia
Conflict used in: Syria (2015–2020), Ukraine War (2022–present)

SOURCE:
Russian Ministry of Defence ; United Aircraft Corporation: https://www.uacrussia.ru ; TASS: https://tass.com/defense ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org ; Flight Global World Air Forces 2020 ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency Russia Military Power Report