The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) received their initial batch of Su-35S fighter aircraft this year. The platforms underwent factory acceptance trials and technical inspections, before Defence Ministry pilots assessed the aircraft across a range of operational profiles. This was followed by the ferry flight from Komsomolsk-on-Amur to their permanent base of operations. This information was released in a press statement by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC).
UAC is not disclosing the number of aircraft delivered; this information has been withheld since 2022. Previously, on 12 September 2024, UAC announced the delivery of Su-35S aircraft to the VKS, alongside Su-57s. Details regarding the number of platforms delivered at that time were also not revealed.
The Su-35S is classified as a 4++ generation multirole fighter and is considered a stepping-stone towards fifth-generation technology. AL-41F1S (Item 117S) engines, with afterburners, a digital flight control system (FCS), and thrust vectoring control (TVC), significantly enhance the aircraft’s manoeuvrability and flight performance.
The fighter is equipped with advanced weaponry and long-range targeting and engagement systems. The aircraft is designed to achieve air superiority and engage air, ground, and maritime targets in all conditions.
Delivery of Su-35S Aircraft to the Russian Aerospace Forces, 29 March 2025 / Video Credit: © UAC Press Office
UAC plans to increase the production of the Su-35S, as well as the Su-34 and Su-57. To this end, production facilities at the aircraft factories in Komsomolsk-on-Amur and Novosibirsk are being expanded. Staff training and equipment upgrades will help to eliminate production bottlenecks.
“The current capacity utilisation rates present the factories with challenges related to upskilling existing employees and recruiting new personnel in key engineering and trades roles. The commissioning of key retooling projects to mitigate bottlenecks in the production cycle will allow us to further increase the rate of production,” UAC stated.
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