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Sukhoi Su-30

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description Sukhoi Su-30 Overview

The Sukhoi Su-30 is a twin-engine, multirole combat aircraft developed in Russia, characterized by its distinctive trapezoidal wing design and advanced fly-by-wire flight control system, primarily used for interception and air superiority missions.

help Sukhoi Su-30 FAQ

What countries operate the Su-30, and which export variant is the most numerous?

The Su-30 is operated by Russia, India (Su-30MKI), China (Su-30MKK), Vietnam, Malaysia (Su-30MKM), Algeria, and several other nations. The Indian Su-30MKI is the most numerous export variant, with India having assembled over 200 units under license by HAL.

Does the Su-30 have thrust vectoring engines like the Su-35?

Some Su-30 variants feature thrust-vectoring engines, most notably the Indian Su-30MKI and the Russian Su-30SM, which use AL-31FP engines with 2D thrust-vectoring nozzles. Not all export variants include this feature, as it depends on the purchasing country's specifications and budget.

What is the difference between the Su-30 and the original Su-27 Flanker?

The Su-30 is a two-seat multirole development of the single-seat Su-27 Flanker, adding a weapons systems officer in the rear seat, expanded air-to-ground capability, and in-flight refueling. The Su-30 also features updated avionics and can function as a mini-AWACS by sharing radar data with other fighters in a formation.

What radar does the Indian Su-30MKI variant use?

The Indian Su-30MKI is equipped with the NIIP N011M Bars radar, a passive electronically scanned array system capable of tracking 15 targets and engaging 4 simultaneously. The Bars radar provides both air-to-air and air-to-ground modes with a claimed detection range of up to 400 km for large targets.

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