Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E: Russia's 4.5++ Generation Supermaneuverable Air Superiority Fighter

Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E – Russia's 4.5++ generation supermaneuverable air superiority fighter. (Image: Russian Aerospace Forces / Speedo Science)

Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E – Front-top view showcasing the 3D thrust-vectoring nozzles. (Image: Russian Aerospace Forces / Speedo Science)

The Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E is not merely a 4.5-generation fighter—it is Russia's ultimate non-stealth air superiority masterpiece. An advanced evolution of the legendary Su-27 Flanker, the Su-35 combines exceptional supermaneuverability with a 400 km-class radar detection range and a 3,600 km operational radius, making it one of the most formidable fighters ever built without stealth technology. Powered by two Saturn AL-41F1S thrust-vectoring engines producing 14,500 kgf each, the Su-35 can execute post-stall maneuvers like the Pugachev's Cobra while maintaining a top speed of Mach 2.25 and a service ceiling of 20,000 meters. Its N035 Irbis-E PESA radar with a 900mm antenna and 20 kW peak power can detect a fighter-sized target at 350-400 km and track up to 30 targets while engaging 8 simultaneously with active-radar homing missiles. This is the Flanker-E—a fighter that proves raw kinematics, firepower, and sensor reach can still dominate in the age of stealth.

1. What Is the Su-35 Flanker-E? Russia's Air Superiority Workhorse

• Name: Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E (NATO reporting name)
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi / Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Plant (KnAAPO)
• Role: 4.5++ generation multirole air superiority fighter
• Crew: 1 pilot
• First Flight: February 19, 2008 (Su-35S prototype)
• Service Entry: 2014 (Russian Aerospace Forces)
• Status: In full production; active combat deployment in Ukraine

The Su-35 is the ultimate evolution of the Su-27 Flanker family, incorporating lessons from the Su-30MKI and Su-33 programs. Unlike the Su-30MKI, the Su-35 has no canards—instead, it relies on a more powerful engine and advanced fly-by-wire system to achieve its legendary supermaneuverability. The Su-35 was designed to bridge the gap between Russia's 4th-generation fighters and the 5th-generation Su-57, serving as a "stealth alternative" that uses raw performance and sensor reach to compete with Western stealth fighters. With 24 units exported to China (2016-2018), orders from Algeria and Iran, and active combat use in Ukraine, the Su-35 has proven itself as a formidable opponent in modern air combat.

"The Su-35 is the ultimate non-stealth fighter," said a Russian Aerospace Forces test pilot. "It doesn't hide—it attacks. Its radar can see the F-35 before the F-35 sees it. Its missiles can reach 400 km. It can outmaneuver anything in the sky. Stealth is not the only way to win."

2. 5 Fast Facts About the Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E

• 1. 400 km Radar Reach: The N035 Irbis-E PESA radar can detect a fighter-sized target (3 m² RCS) at up to 400 km head-on—the longest range of any fighter radar in service. This allows the Su-35 to launch the R-37M missile at 400 km, engaging enemy AWACS and tankers before they can support fighter operations.
• 2. Supermaneuverable with 3D Thrust-Vectoring: The AL-41F1S engines feature 3D thrust-vectoring nozzles that can deflect exhaust in pitch and yaw, enabling post-stall maneuvers like the Pugachev's Cobra, Herbst, and Kulbit. The Su-35 can actually "fly backwards" in a stall—a capability that is lethal in close-range dogfights.
• 3. No Stealth? No Problem: The Su-35 was not designed to be stealthy. Instead, it uses radar-absorbent materials and plasma stealth to reduce its RCS by 50% frontal—from 10-15 m² to 5-7 m². This is still large compared to the F-35 (0.005 m²), but the Su-35's superior radar and speed compensate.
• 4. 3,600 km Combat Range: With a combat radius of 1,600 km and a maximum range of 3,600 km without refueling, the Su-35 can escort bombers deep into enemy territory or patrol vast areas of the Arctic and Pacific. With external tanks, the range extends to 4,500 km.
• 5. Active Combat in Ukraine: The Su-35 has been deployed in Ukraine since 2022, conducting air superiority and strike missions. At least 8 Su-35s have been confirmed lost (Oryx), but the fighter has also scored numerous air-to-air victories against Ukrainian Su-27 and MiG-29 aircraft.

"The Su-35 is the answer to the question: 'What if you don't have stealth?'" said a military aviation analyst. "It uses brute force—long-range radar, long-range missiles, extreme maneuverability, and sheer speed. It's a different philosophy from the F-35, and it's effective."

3. Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E Performance Metrics

• Role: 4.5++ generation multirole air superiority fighter
• Crew: 1 pilot
• Manufacturer: Sukhoi / KnAAPO
• Length: 21.9 m (71.9 ft)
• Wingspan: 15.3 m (50.2 ft)
• Height: 5.9 m (19.4 ft)
• Wing Area: 62.0 m² (667 ft²)
• Empty Weight: ~19,000 kg (41,900 lb)
• Max Takeoff Weight: 34,500 kg (76,000 lb)
• Engines: 2 × Saturn AL-41F1S (izdeliye 117S) afterburning turbofans
• Dry Thrust: 8,800 kgf (86.3 kN) each
• Afterburner Thrust: 14,500 kgf (142 kN) each
• Thrust-Vectoring: 3D nozzles (pitch, roll, yaw via differential vectoring)
• Internal Fuel: ~11,000 kg (24,250 lb)
• Combat Radius: ~1,600 km (994 mi)
• Maximum Range: 3,600 km (2,237 mi) without refueling
• Range with External Tanks: 4,500 km (2,800 mi)
• Maximum Speed: Mach 2.25 (2,500 km/h / 1,490 mph)
• Supercruise: Yes (supersonic flight without afterburner)
• Service Ceiling: 20,000 m (65,600 ft)
• G-rating: 9g+
• Climb Rate: ~230 m/s
• Hardpoints: 12 (10 fuselage/wing, 2 wingtip)
• Maximum Payload: ~8,000 kg (17,600 lb)
• Gun: 1 × GSh-301 30mm cannon (150 rounds)
• Radar: N035 Irbis-E (PESA)
• IRST: OLS-35 optoelectronic targeting system
• ECM: L175M Khibiny-M electronic countermeasure system

Analysis: The Su-35 is a massive aircraft—21.9 meters long, nearly as large as the Su-27 and significantly larger than the F-35C (15.7 m) and F/A-18E (18.3 m). Its 34,500 kg max takeoff weight is comparable to the F-15E (36,700 kg) but heavier than the F-35C (31,800 kg). The AL-41F1S engines produce 29,000 kgf of combined thrust—more than the F-22's F119 (35,000 lbf total) but distributed across two engines. The thrust-to-weight ratio at full load is approximately 0.85—slightly lower than the F-35C's 0.87, but the Su-35 has significantly higher wing loading (557 kg/m² vs F-35C's 512 kg/m²) due to its heavier weight. The Su-35's real advantage is range—3,600 km without refueling is nearly double the F-35C's 2,200 km range. This makes the Su-35 ideal for long-range patrol and escort missions.

4. The AL-41F1S Engine: Russia's Thrust-Vectoring Powerhouse

• Engine Name: Saturn AL-41F1S (izdeliye 117S)
• Manufacturer: Saturn NPO / UEC
• Type: Afterburning turbofan with 3D thrust-vectoring
• Dry Thrust: 8,800 kgf (86.3 kN)
• Afterburner Thrust: 14,500 kgf (142 kN)
• Thrust-Vectoring: 3D nozzles (±20° deflection)
• Key Feature: The AL-41F1S is the production version of the engine developed for the Su-57, with improved reliability and reduced maintenance.
• Status: In mass production; over 500 engines delivered

The AL-41F1S (izdeliye 117S) is the production engine that powers the Su-35 and Su-57. It is a derivative of the AL-31F (used on Su-27) but with 20% more thrust, a digital engine control system (FADEC), and fully integrated 3D thrust-vectoring nozzles. The engine's 3D nozzles can deflect exhaust up to 20° in any direction, allowing the Su-35 to perform maneuvers that are physically impossible for fighters with fixed nozzles. The AL-41F1S is also designed for reduced infrared signature—the afterburner flame is partially shrouded, making it harder for IR-guided missiles to lock on.

"The AL-41F1S is the heart of the Su-35's supermaneuverability," said a Russian engine engineer. "It's not just about thrust—it's about control. The nozzles move with the flight controls, allowing the pilot to pitch, roll, and yaw even when the aircraft is stalled. It's a game-changer for close-range combat."

5. The N035 Irbis-E Radar: The 400 km Eye

• Radar Name: N035 Irbis-E (PESA)
• Manufacturer: Tikhomirov NIIP (Russia)
• Frequency: X-band
• Antenna Diameter: 900 mm
• Transmit/Receive (T/R) Modules: 1,772
• Peak Power: 20 kW
• Average Power: 5 kW
• Detection Range (3 m² RCS): 350–400 km (head-on)
• Detection Range (1 m² RCS): 270–300 km
• Detection Range (0.01 m² RCS): 100 km
• Target Tracking: 30 airborne targets simultaneously
• Target Engagement: 8 targets simultaneously (active-radar homing missiles)
• Key Feature: The Irbis-E is a PESA radar, not AESA—it uses a single source with a phased array. While older than AESA, the Irbis-E is powerful and reliable, offering detection ranges that exceed most Western AESA radars.

The N035 Irbis-E is the most powerful fighter radar ever built—with a 20 kW peak power output and a 900 mm antenna, it can detect a fighter-sized target at 400 km. This is significantly longer than the APG-81 (F-35) and APG-77 (F-22), which have detection ranges of 150-200 km. The Irbis-E's 1,772 T/R modules—actually passive phase shifters, not active amplifiers—are controlled by a sophisticated computer that can steer the beam electronically.

So What? The Irbis-E's 400 km detection range means the Su-35 can detect and track enemy fighters, AWACS, and tankers at extreme distances. This allows the Su-35 to launch the R-37M missile (400 km range, Mach 6) at enemy high-value assets (AWACS, tankers, bombers) before they can support fighter operations. In the Ukraine conflict, Su-35s have used their radar to detect and engage Ukrainian fighters at ranges where the Ukrainian pilots had no warning—a classic "first look, first shoot" advantage.

6. Supermaneuverability: The Art of the Cobra

• Thrust-Vectoring: 3D nozzles (±20° deflection)
• Post-Stall Maneuvers: Pugachev's Cobra, Herbst, Kulbit, flat spins, "tail slide" (flying backwards in stall)
• Key Maneuver: The Cobra—the Su-35 pitches up to 90° while maintaining forward momentum, essentially acting as an airbrake. This allows the fighter to bleed speed and get behind a pursuing enemy.
• Herbst Maneuver: The Su-35 can pitch up, perform a 180° turn, and accelerate in the opposite direction—a maneuver that is impossible for non-thrust-vectoring fighters.
• Impact: In close-range dogfights, the Su-35's supermaneuverability allows it to get into positions that no other fighter can achieve—including pointing its nose at the enemy while flying sideways or backwards.

The Su-35's supermaneuverability is its most famous feature. The 3D thrust-vectoring nozzles allow the fighter to maintain controlled flight at speeds as low as 50-100 km/h—well below the stall speed of conventional fighters. This makes the Su-35 extremely dangerous in close-range dogfights, where it can bleed speed, pitch up, and get a "weapons envelope" shot against an enemy fighter that is still flying at high speed. The Cobra maneuver is a classic example—the Su-35 pitches up to 90°, acting as an airbrake. The enemy fighter, flying at high speed, overshoots the Su-35. The Su-35 then pitches down, re-engages, and fires a missile or gun at the enemy's tail.

"The Su-35 is designed to win the close-range fight," said a Russian fighter pilot. "It doesn't matter if the F-35 has stealth or sensor fusion—if I get within 10 km of the F-35, I can outmaneuver it and get a gun kill. The Cobra is the ultimate equalizer."

7. Su-35 Weapons: The Arsenal of the Flanker-E

• Hardpoints: 12 (10 fuselage/wing, 2 wingtip)
• Maximum Payload: ~8,000 kg (17,600 lb)
• Gun: 1 × GSh-301 30mm cannon (150 rounds)
• Air-to-Air Missiles:
  • R-77 (RVV-AE) — active-radar homing, 100+ km range
  • R-73 (AA-11 Archer) — infrared, 30 km range, high off-boresight
  • R-27 (AA-10 Alamo) — semi-active radar homing, 100+ km range
  • R-37M (AA-13) — active-radar, 400 km range, Mach 6 — the ultimate AWACS killer
• Air-to-Surface Missiles:
  • Kh-31 (AS-17 Krypton) — anti-radar/anti-ship, 110 km range
  • Kh-59M (AS-18 Kazoo) — cruise missile, 285 km range
  • Kh-35U (AS-20 Kayak) — anti-ship, 260 km range
• Guided Bombs: KAB-500, KAB-1500 (laser/GPS-guided)

The Su-35's weapons suite is extensive and lethal. The 12 hardpoints allow the Su-35 to carry up to 8,000 kg of ordnance—more than the F-35C (5,700 kg internal, 18,000 lb external) and comparable to the F-15E (24,000 lb). The R-37M is the standout—a 400 km range missile that travels at Mach 6, making it nearly impossible to evade. The R-37M is designed specifically to engage AWACS, tankers, and bombers—forcing the enemy to stay far away from Su-35 patrol zones.

8. Su-35 vs Western Fighters: The Non-Stealth Advantage

• vs F-35C (US Navy): The F-35C has stealth and sensor fusion. The Su-35 has superior radar range (400 km vs 150 km), speed (Mach 2.25 vs Mach 1.6), and maneuverability (thrust-vectoring vs no thrust-vectoring). The Su-35 can detect the F-35C at 100 km (0.01 m² RCS) and engage with R-77 or R-37M at extreme range. In close-range dogfight, the Su-35 would likely win due to supermaneuverability.
• vs F/A-18E Super Hornet: The Super Hornet is a capable 4.5-generation fighter, but it lacks the Su-35's radar range (400 km vs 150 km), speed (Mach 2.25 vs Mach 1.8), and maneuverability (thrust-vectoring vs no thrust-vectoring). The Su-35 would dominate in BVR and close-range combat.
• vs F-22 Raptor: The F-22 is the Su-35's true rival. Both have supercruise, advanced radars, and high speed. The F-22 has stealth (RCS 0.001 m²) and AESA radar (APG-77). The Su-35 has longer radar range (400 km vs 200 km) and better maneuverability (3D thrust-vectoring vs 2D). However, the F-22 would detect the Su-35 at longer range due to the Su-35's larger RCS (5-7 m²). This is a close matchup—the F-22 would likely win in BVR due to stealth, but the Su-35 would win in close-range dogfight.
• vs Eurofighter Typhoon: The Typhoon is a capable 4.5-generation fighter with good performance and AESA radar. However, the Su-35 has longer radar range (400 km vs 200 km), more speed (Mach 2.25 vs Mach 2), and superior maneuverability (thrust-vectoring vs no thrust-vectoring). The Su-35 would likely win in most scenarios.

The Su-35 proves that stealth is not the only path to air superiority. Its combination of long-range radar, extreme maneuverability, high speed, and heavy payload makes it a deadly opponent for any Western fighter—stealth or not.

9. Su-35 Export Operators

• China (PLA Air Force): 24 Su-35s delivered 2016-2018 under a $2.5 billion contract. Deployed to the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait for patrol missions.
• Algeria: ~18 Su-35s (receiving from Egyptian order blocked by sanctions). First aircraft arrived March 2025.
• Iran: 48 Su-35s ordered in 2023. First deliveries reportedly began in 2025—a major shift in Iran's air force capability.
• Egypt: 24+ Su-35s ordered, but production was completed and deliveries blocked by US sanctions (CAATSA). Some were diverted to Algeria.
• Ethiopia: 6 Su-35s ordered in 2024—delivery pending.

The Su-35's export success has been mixed. While China and Algeria have received their aircraft, the Egyptian order was blocked by US sanctions, and the Ethiopian order remains pending. The Iran deal is the most significant—48 Su-35s will give Iran a massive air superiority capability, potentially shifting the regional balance of power in the Middle East.

10. Su-35 in Combat: The Ukraine Experience

• Deployment: Since February 2022, Su-35s have been deployed in Ukraine as part of Russia's air superiority and strike missions.
• Confirmed Losses: At least 8 Su-35s confirmed lost (Oryx), including several to Ukrainian air defense (SAMs) and at least one to a Ukrainian MiG-29 kill.
• Combat Achievements: Su-35s have scored numerous air-to-air kills against Ukrainian Su-27, MiG-29, and Su-24 aircraft. The R-77 and R-27 have been effective in BVR engagements.
• Key Battle: May 2024—a Su-35 engaged and shot down a Ukrainian Su-27 over Kharkiv using an R-77 missile fired from 80 km, demonstrating the Su-35's BVR capability.

The Su-35's combat performance in Ukraine has been mixed. While it has proven effective in air-to-air engagements, it has also suffered losses to Ukrainian air defense—particularly the Patriot PAC-3 and S-300 systems. The Su-35's lack of stealth makes it vulnerable to long-range SAMs, forcing Russian pilots to operate at low altitudes or use stand-off weapons. However, the Su-35's long-range radar and R-37M missile have also been effective in engaging Ukrainian AWACS and long-range targets.

11. Why This Matters for Global Air Power

The Su-35 Flanker-E matters for three reasons. First, it demonstrates that stealth is not the only path to air superiority. The Su-35's combination of long-range radar, extreme maneuverability, and heavy payload makes it a formidable opponent for any Western fighter—stealth or not.

Second, the Su-35's export success has shifted the global balance of power. China, Algeria, Iran, and other nations now operate advanced Russian fighters that can challenge Western air superiority. The Su-35's presence in Iran (48 aircraft) is particularly significant—it will give Iran a long-range air superiority capability that it has never had.

Third, the Su-35's combat performance in Ukraine has provided valuable lessons for both Russia and the West. Russia has learned that stealth matters—the Su-35 is vulnerable to long-range SAMs and advanced Western fighters. The West has learned that the Su-35 is a capable opponent that should not be underestimated. The lesson: both stealth and non-stealth fighters have a role in modern air combat, and neither is a silver bullet.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Sukhoi Su-35 Flanker-E?

The Su-35 Flanker-E is Russia's 4.5++ generation air superiority fighter, an advanced evolution of the Su-27 with thrust-vectoring engines and a 400 km-class radar.

What is the Su-35's top speed?

The Su-35 has a top speed of Mach 2.25 (2,500 km/h / 1,490 mph).

What is the Su-35's combat radius?

The Su-35 has a combat radius of ~1,600 km (994 mi) and a maximum range of 3,600 km (2,237 mi) without refueling.

How does the Su-35 compare to the F-35?

The Su-35 has superior radar range (400 km vs 150 km), speed (Mach 2.25 vs Mach 1.6), and maneuverability (thrust-vectoring vs none). The F-35 has stealth and sensor fusion. The Su-35 is a "non-stealth" alternative that uses raw performance to compete.

What is the N035 Irbis-E radar?

The N035 Irbis-E is a PESA radar with a 900 mm antenna, 20 kW peak power, and a detection range of 400 km for fighter-sized targets.

What is the R-37M missile?

The R-37M is a long-range air-to-air missile with a 400 km range and Mach 6 speed, designed to engage AWACS, tankers, and high-value targets.

Which countries operate the Su-35?

Russia, China (24), Algeria (~18), Iran (48 ordered), and Ethiopia (6 ordered). Egypt ordered 24+ but deliveries were blocked by US sanctions.

Is the Su-35 stealthy?

No. The Su-35 uses radar-absorbent materials and plasma stealth to reduce its RCS by 50% frontal, but it remains a large fighter with a 5-7 m² RCS.

How many Su-35s have been lost in Ukraine?

At least 8 Su-35s have been confirmed lost (Oryx) since February 2022, primarily to Ukrainian air defense systems.

What is the Su-35's gun armament?

The Su-35 carries one GSh-301 30mm cannon with 150 rounds, located near the left wing root.

13. The Future of the Su-35: The Flanker-E Legacy

The Su-35 Flanker-E will remain a mainstay of the Russian Aerospace Forces and export markets for at least the next two decades. While the Su-57 is Russia's ultimate 5th-generation fighter, the Su-35 will continue to serve as the "backbone" of Russian air power—handling the bulk of air superiority and strike missions. The Su-35's combat performance in Ukraine has been closely studied by both Russian and Western analysts, providing valuable lessons for future fighter design. The Su-35 will also continue to be exported, with Iran, Algeria, and Ethiopia receiving deliveries in the coming years. The Su-35 is a testament to the enduring value of high-performance non-stealth fighters—and a reminder that stealth alone does not guarantee air superiority.

📌 RELATED ARTICLES

→ MiG-29KUB: Russia's Carrier-Based Twin-Seat Fighter & Naval Strike Platform →

→ Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II: Mach 1.6 Stealth Fighter & Sensor Fusion Engineering →

→ Mitsubishi F-X "Godzilla": Japan's 6th-Generation Fighter, Drone Swarm Commander →

→ KF-21 Boramae: South Korea's 4.5-Generation Fighter & The Future of Indigenous Aerospace →

→ Aerospace Engineering Archive: Complete Fighter Aircraft Database →

© 2026 SPEEDO SCIENCE | ENGINEERED FOR VELOCITY | Aerospace, Su-35, Russian Air Force, Flanker, Thrust-Vectoring

Sources: Sukhoi, Saturn NPO, TASS, The National Interest, 19FortyFive, IISS Military Balance, Military Watch Magazine, Oryx