The first batch of Russian advanced multi-role Su-30SM fighters has been delivered to the State Proving Flying Center located in Akhtubinsk (Astrakhan Region), RIA Novosti reports with reference to the official representative of the Ministry of Defense, Air Forces, Colonel Vladimir Deryabin.

"The two jets have performed flight from Irkutsk to Akhtubinsk with intermediate stops in Novosibirsk and Chelyabinsk", — Deryabin said.

According to him, the acquisition of advanced super-maneuverable two-seat Su-30SM fighters will significantly improve the combat strength of the Russian air forces. "The jet’s technical capabilities help increase the quality of pilot training, which is especially important in view of increasing the purchase amount of next-generation vehicles. According to the signed contracts, Russian air forces will acquire about 30 new multi-role fighters", — Deryabin explained.

The multi-role super-maneuverable Su-30SM fighter is the member of Su-30MK family. The specialists of Sukhoi design bureau tailored the jet in accordance with the requirements of Russian air forces in the area of radar, radio communication and state identification systems, catapult seat and some support systems.

The contract on delivery of 30 multi-role Su-30SM fighters during a period until 2015 was signed by Russian MoD and Irkut Corporation in March 2012. The RF ex-Minister of Defense, Anatoly Serdukov, stated earlier that the acquisition of advanced super-maneuverable two-seated Su-30SM fighters will significantly improve the air forces’ combat strength. In addition, according to Serdukov, the jet’s capabilities will help improve the quality of pilot training, which is very important in light of increasing the purchase amount of the next-generation combat aircraft.