description Sukhoi Su-15 Overview
The Sukhoi Su-15, NATO reporting name "Flagon", was a twin-engine supersonic interceptor aircraft developed by the Soviet Union in the 1960s. It served as a primary defender of Soviet airspace during the Cold War, replacing earlier interceptors with its advanced radar and missile armament. The aircraft is historically notorious for its involvement in two civilian aircraft shoot-downs: Korean Air Lines Flight 902 in 1978 and Flight 007 in 1983.
help Sukhoi Su-15 FAQ
What does the NATO name Flagon refer to?
Flagon is the NATO reporting name for the Soviet Sukhoi Su-15 interceptor. The aircraft was developed during the 1960s to defend Soviet airspace against high-speed intruders.
What was the Sukhoi Su-15's main role?
The Su-15 was a twin-engine supersonic interceptor, not a general-purpose fighter-bomber. It replaced earlier Soviet interceptors such as the Su-9 and Su-11 and relied heavily on ground-controlled interception.
What weapons did the Su-15 use?
The aircraft was associated with radar-guided and infrared versions of the R-98 missile, with later Su-15TM aircraft also able to carry R-60 short-range missiles. Its large nose radar was central to its interception role.
What was the Su-15TM upgrade?
The Su-15TM was a later improved version equipped with the Taifun-M radar, known by NATO as Twin Scan. It also added more flexible short-range missile and gun-pod options compared with earlier Flagon variants.
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