Sukhoi Su-27

The Sukhoi Su‑27, developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau in the Soviet Union, entered service in 1985 as a direct response to the United States' F‑15 Eagle. Its development began in the early 1970s under the P‑1 project, with the first prototype, T‑10, flying on 22 May 1977. Designed as a long‑range, air‑superiority fighter, the Su‑27 combines a twin‑engine layout, a blended‑wing body, and aerodynamics that give it maneuverability, including the “Cobra” post‑stall maneuver. Key features include a thrust‑vectoring capable AL‑31F turbofan, a digital fly‑by‑wire flight control system, a pulse‑Doppler radar capable of tracking multiple targets, and an arsenal of missiles such as the R‑73 and R‑77. Its large internal fuel capacity provides a combat radius exceeding 1,500 km, allowing deep‑strike missions without refueling. The Su‑27 has spawned a family of variants—Su‑30, Su‑33, Su‑35, and Su‑37—used by more than a dozen air forces worldwide. Export versions with western avionics, such as the Su‑27SK, opened markets in Asia and the Middle East, while upgrades like the Su‑27SM added AESA radar and electronic‑warfare suites, keeping the aircraft relevant into the 21st century.

Sukhoi Design Bureau

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Design & Classification