Sukhoi T-12 Shturmovik-90

The Sukhoi T‑12 Shturmovik‑90 is a modern close‑air support and ground‑attack aircraft developed by the Russian aerospace corporation Sukhoi in the early 2020s. Conceived as a successor to the venerable Su‑25, the T‑12 program began in 2017 to address the need for a more survivable, multirole platform capable of operating from austere forward airfields. The prototype first flew on 12 March 2021, and after an intensive flight‑test campaign it entered limited service with the Russian Aerospace Forces in 2025.

Key features include a composite‑rich airframe with a reduced radar cross‑section, a digitally‑controlled twin‑engine configuration delivering 11,500 kilonewtons of thrust, and a modular weapons bay that can carry up to 8,000 kg of precision‑guided munitions, rockets, and anti‑armor missiles. Advanced avionics suite incorporates an all‑weather infrared search‑and‑track system, helmet‑mounted display, and fly‑by‑wire controls with automatic damage‑management algorithms. The aircraft’s rugged landing gear and enhanced short‑takeoff/short‑landing capabilities enable operations from semi‑prepared strips.

The T‑12 Shturmovik‑90 has become significant in aviation history for bridging the gap between legacy attack jets and next‑generation stealth fighters, demonstrating how modern survivability, network‑centric warfare, and cost‑effective production can revitalize the dedicated ground‑attack role.