OVERVIEW: The Su-35K Flanker E is a single-seat, twin-engine, 4.5 generation multirole air superiority fighter developed by Sukhoi and exported to the Chinese PLAAF. As of 2022, it remains in frontline service, providing extended-range air defense and strike capability with advanced maneuverability and sensor range.

DETAILS: Based on the Su-27 platform, the Su-35K features thrust-vectoring AL-41F1S (117S) engines capable of Mach 2.25, increased internal fuel capacity, and a strengthened airframe. It has 12 external hardpoints and is equipped with the Irbis-E PESA radar, Khibiny-M internal ECM suite, OLS-35 IRST, and L-150 RWR. The aircraft supports Russian-origin weapons such as R-77 and R-73 air-to-air missiles, Kh-31 and Kh-59 air-to-surface missiles, and KAB-500/1500 guided bombs; it does not carry Chinese-made munitions. As of 2022, the 24 aircraft delivered between 2016 and 2018 remain operational, primarily deployed in southern and eastern theater commands. Flanker E is the NATO reporting name for the Su-35.

“Su” designates Sukhoi, and “35K” is the export version of the Su-35S. China procured the Su-35K to supplement its domestic fighters with a platform offering superior endurance, radar reach, and maneuverability for long-range air patrol and area denial.

TYPE: Multirole air superiority fighter

FUNCTION: The Su-35K is employed for extended air superiority, maritime patrol, and interdiction missions. Its supermaneuverability and long-range radar make it effective for early engagement and airspace control over wide areas.

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 ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; Flight Global World Air Forces 2023 ; TASS: https://tass.com/defense