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generation. They make it superior to all other 4th generation fighters now under
development worldwide. In 2009-2015, thanks to these technologies, the Su-35 will
dominate the world market, outperforming other proposed multi-role fighters.
The first experimental Su-35, completed in summer 2007 at Komsomolsk-na-
Amure Aviation Production Association (KnAAPO) first appeared at Russia’s
MAKS-2007 air show.
Рис. 8. Su-35 multi-role fighter
A new aircraft with an old name
The Su-35 has long been a brand name in the aviation world. Since 1992, an
export version of the Su-27 fighter (created under the order of the Russian Air Force)
has been demonstrated at international air shows. At the turn of the millennium, Su-
35 fighters participated in the tenders of Korean and Brazilian air forces. By the mid-
decade of the new century, a general concept emerged of a considerably modified Su-
27 fighter, which retained the name of Su-35.
What is new in the Su-35? First off, the fighter will get an improved airframe,
which will dramatically increase its service life to 6,000 hours, 30 years of operation
(the time before the first test and recondition and the between-repairs period has been
increased to 1,500 hours, or 10 years of operation). Aerodynamically it is similar to
the Su-27. But unlike the Su-30MKI it will feature no canard fins. All the three
channels will have electrically signaled control without mechanical cabling. The use
of a new integrated control system (developed by MNPK Avionika Moscow-based
Research and Production Association) simultaneously performing functions of
several systems – remote control, automatic control, limiting signals system, air
signals system, chassis wheels braking system – will enhance the fighter’s handling
capability and maneuverability.
Among the Su-35 design features, worth of note is the absence of an overhead
brake flap, a standard characteristic of the Su-27. Its functions are performed by an
active rudder. The Su-35 chassis has been reinforced because of the increased takeoff
and landing weight of the aircraft. For the same reason, the front bearing has two
wheels. The improved radar stealth reduces the reflectance of the Su-35 in the X
radio waveband and in the angle range of ±60°.
