Russian Minister of Defense, Anatoly Serdukov, and President of Irkut Corporation, Alexey Fedorov, have signed the contract on delivery of multi-role Su-30SM fighters to the armed forces, the corporation’s press-service reports. AEX.ru

"According to the contract, Irkut will manufacture 30 jets of this type for Russian Ministry of Defense by 2015. As noted by Anatoly Serdukov, the deliveries of advanced super-maneuverable two-seat Su-30SM fighters to the armed forces will significantly increase the combat strength of Russian air forces. In addition, the jet’s technical capabilities will help improve the level of pilot training, which is especially important in light of acquisition of next-generation vehicles", - said in the statement.

Alexey Fedorov, said that Irkut Corporation is working in close cooperation with Sukhoi Company and it will do its best to perform the state contract on delivery of the fighters in time. The well-functioning large-series production of Su-30’s different modifications allows Irkut to provide a high quality of the vehicles intended for Russian and foreign customers.

The multi-role Su-30SM fighter has been developed by Sukhoi design bureau; it is the member of Su-30MKI family. These fighters are manufactured by Irkutsk aviation plant – a division of Irkut Corporation. The jets are successfully competing with advanced foreign aircraft at the global market.

The two-seat super-maneuverable Su-30SM fighter is equipped with radar with phased antenna array and able to use advanced air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons. This jet may also be used for training of pilots, who will operate the advanced multi-role super-maneuverable single-seat fighters in future.