RuAviation

Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has delivered the first batches of Su-30SM2 multirole fighters and Su-34 strike aircraft to the Ministry of Defence in 2026 under the country’s state defence procurement programme.

The aircraft completed factory acceptance procedures, including ground and flight testing, before being transferred to operational units, UAC said.

The deliveries mark the latest production output from UAC’s combat aircraft manufacturing facilities, which continue to supply aircraft to the Russian Aerospace Forces in line with defence procurement schedules. The corporation has not disclosed delivery quantities or aircraft serial numbers since 2022.

UAC-released imagery of one of the newly delivered Su-34 aircraft showed the registration number RF-81920, providing limited additional visibility into Russian combat aircraft production activity. Based on available aircraft numbering data, open-source analysts estimate that around 145 Su-34, Su-35S, Su-57 and Su-30SM2 aircraft may have entered service with the Russian Aerospace Forces and Naval Aviation between mid-2022 and July 2026.

The Su-30SM2 is an upgraded variant of the Su-30SM operated by Russian military aviation. The aircraft incorporates improved avionics and a more capable radar system, enabling engagement of air, ground and maritime targets at extended ranges.

The Su-34 is a dedicated strike aircraft designed for operations against ground and maritime targets, as well as long-range precision strike missions. The aircraft has been extensively used by Russian forces in the conflict in Ukraine, including for employment of guided glide bombs equipped with universal planning and guidance modules.

UAC chief executive Vadim Badaekha said the corporation is continuing production of combat aircraft under the state defence order while incorporating operational experience into further aircraft improvements.