Sukhoi Su-35

The Su-35 is powered by two Saturn AL-41F1S (Item 117S) turbofan engines with 3D thrust-vectoring nozzles, each producing approximately 145 kN of thrust with afterburner. The thrust-vectoring capability gives the Su-35 exceptional maneuverability and post-stall handling in close air combat.

The Su-35 is equipped with the N035 Irbis-E passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar, which can reportedly track up to 30 aerial targets simultaneously and engage up to 8. The Irbis-E has a claimed detection range of up to 400 km for large radar-cross-section targets.

The Su-35 excels in kinematic performance, range, and maneuverability due to its powerful engines and thrust vectoring, but its avionics and sensor fusion lag behind fifth-generation fighters like the F-35. Against fourth-generation F-15 variants, the comparison is closer, with the Su-35 holding advantages in agility but generally trailing in radar and electronic warfare sophistication.

Russia is the primary operator of the Su-35, with China having received 24 Su-35SK aircraft under a contract signed around 2015. Other potential buyers have been reported over the years, including Iran and Egypt, but widespread export has been limited by geopolitical factors and competition from other fighter programs.