The latest multi-role Su-35 fighter is being tested for tactical employment in the network of its state testing, RIA Novosti reports with reference to the official representative of Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD RF), Air Forces, Colonel Vladimir Drik.

The state testing of multi-role super-maneuverable Su-35 fighter is underway in State Proving Flying Center (SPFC) of MoD RF named after Chkalov. Over 650 flights have already been performed in the network of the flight test program. "The flight testing of Su-35 with real tactical employment is currently being performed", - Drik said.

The pilots of SPFC have earlier performed flights aimed at assessment of aircraft performance, durability, stability and aircraft sensitivity, the work of its powerplant and avionics.

Important ground and flight tests for functional checking of command information system, communication system, navigation and radar system have also been completed. "The testing of this vehicle is being carried out in accordance with the program of state testing. Following the results of the completed stage of Su-35’s state joint testing it is planned to obtain the customer’s preliminary advice in October, which allows delivering the jets to flying units in accordance with plans for 2012", - Drik said.

Su-35 will become the prime fighter of the air forces, he added. Russian air forces will acquire the first six Su-35s in 2012. The Ministry of Defense intends to purchase about 90 Su-35 fighters by 2020.