OVERVIEW: The Su-34 Fullback is a twin-engine, two-seat, 4.5 generation supersonic strike fighter developed by Sukhoi for the Russian Air Force. Based on the Su-27IB design, the 2024 variant continues integration of UMPK kits for low-cost, precision-guided glide bombing using legacy munitions.

DETAILS: The Su-34 features a modified Su-27 airframe with a widened, armored forward fuselage and side-by-side cockpit configuration, powered by two AL-31F-M1 turbofans with a top speed of Mach 1.8. It carries up to 12 hardpoints and is fitted with the Leninets B-004 radar, internal Khibiny-M ECM system, L-150 RWR, and electro-optical navigation and targeting systems. The 2024 configuration saw expanded operational use of UMPK (Universal Glide Kit) fitted to FAB-250, FAB-500 and FAB-3000 bombs, enabling GPS-guided standoff strikes with ranges up to 50 km. The aircraft remains capable of deploying Kh-31, Kh-59, Kh-35, KAB-series bombs, and R-73 and R-77 air-to-air missiles. Fullback is the NATO reporting name for the Su-34.

“Su” identifies Sukhoi, and “34” marks the strike-optimized evolution of the Su-27IB program. The 2024 variant continues the widespread use of UMPK kits for stand-off precision attacks, increasing efficiency against fixed targets while minimizing exposure to enemy air defenses.

Type: Fighter-bomber / strike aircraft

FUNCTION: The Su-34 is employed for long-range interdiction, tactical bombing, and precision standoff strikes. UMPK integration enables mass deployment of cost-effective guided munitions in high-threat environments.

NOTE:
IOC: Su-27 (1985 Russia), Su-34 (2014 Russia)
Manufacturer: Sukhoi (Russia)
Operators: Russia
Conflict used in: 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 ; Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft ; Flight Global World Air Forces 2024 ; U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency Russia Military Power Report