Four serial Su-34 tactical bombers have been delivered to Voronezh air base by Novosibirsk Aircraft Production Association named after V.P. Chkalov (NAPO). Two more aircraft will be delivered there in the next few days. The delivery is carried out in the network of a state contract signed in 2008 on delivery of 32 Su-34s for the Russian Ministry of Defense, Sukhoi Company reports. AEX.ru
The state testing of the aircraft has been completed in September 2011 and the corresponding act has been signed with a recommendation of putting it into service. Su-34 will replace the fleet of currently operated Su-24s, the company noted.
"Independent from the time of day and weather conditions, Su-34 is able to hit the ground, sea and air targets using all the assortment of aircraft ammunition, including the high-precision munition. It is the 4+-generation aircraft. The active safety system and advanced computers provide additional capabilities for the jet and allow pilot and navigating officer to carry out target bombing and maneuver under enemy fire. Excellent aerodynamics, great capacity of integral tanks, highly efficient engines with digital control system, air refueling system and mounting of additional fuel tanks provide a long range for the jet (almost as average strategic bombers)", - Sukhoi’s press-service said.
The jet has a great performance and maneuvering characteristics, long-range sighting systems, advanced communications system for data exchange with ground command facilities, ground forces, surface ships and between the jets. The high-performance long-range armament of air-to-surface and air-to-air class with a capability of multi-channel engagement. It is fitted with high-intelligent radar countermeasure and defense system. Su-34 has an extensive damage control system, including armored cockpit. The jet is able to attain combat tasks at low altitude in “fly-by” and “pass-by” modes. It is planned to increase the jet’s combat potential with new air-launched weapons in the nearest future, the company added.
