The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) continues its scheduled deliveries of Su-35S multirole fighter jets to the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS). On September 24, UAC handed over the fifth batch of these aircraft in 2025, according to the corporation’s press service.
The first batch was delivered on March 29, 2025, followed by subsequent deliveries on May 12, June 25, and August 21. The exact number of aircraft and their tail numbers remain undisclosed, in line with security protocols for state defense contracts introduced after the onset of the Special Military Operation (SMO).
Each aircraft undergoes a comprehensive series of factory tests prior to delivery, including ground checks and flight trials. The Su-35S is equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, an advanced electronic warfare suite, and a modern weapons control system. Its AL-41F1S engines with thrust vectoring provide exceptional maneuverability and enable the execution of advanced aerobatic maneuvers.
The Su-35S achieves a maximum speed of 869.9 mph (1,400 km/h) at 650 feet (200 meters) altitude. At approximately 33,000 feet (10,000 meters), the aircraft can reach a top speed of Mach 2.25, or about 1,490 mph (2,400 km/h). Its service ceiling is around 59,000 feet (18,000 meters). At this altitude and at cruise speed, the Su-35S can conduct extended missions with a maximum range of approximately 2,240 miles (3,600 km) without aerial refueling. Its combat radius is up to 1,000 miles (1,600 km).
To maintain a steady production rate, UAC’s manufacturing facilities operate around the clock. The Su-35S has been in service with the Russian Aerospace Forces since 2014 and has seen active combat deployment since 2022. The ongoing delivery of new aircraft ensures the required level of combat readiness and supports the modernization of Russia’s tactical aviation fleet.
The Su-35S can carry up to 17,600 lbs (8 metric tons) of ordnance, including guided missiles and precision-guided bombs. Its comprehensive avionics suite and operational versatility make it a key asset for a wide range of missions, from air group escort to engaging both aerial and ground targets.
In June 2025, it was reported that Russian tactical aviation, including Su-35S units, began fielding the new R-77M (K-77, “Izdeliye-180”) long-range, high-maneuverability air-to-air missile. Developed by the Vympel State Machine-Building Design Bureau, the R-77M features a dual-pulse solid-fuel motor and an active radar seeker with an AESA antenna, significantly enhancing resistance to jamming and target acquisition range—up to 112–118 miles (180–190 km) at high altitude.
The R-77M is capable of intercepting highly maneuverable aerial targets and enemy fighters, withstanding overloads of 25–27 g. Integration of the R-77M into the Su-35S and Su-30SM/2 armament suite substantially increases their combat effectiveness, enabling them to counter modern Western fighters equipped with comparable missiles such as the AIM-120D.
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