New Su‑34 jets reinforce Russian military as Ukraine strikes back
Russian air forces were reinforced with new Su-34 aircraft in the first days of September 2024. The Russian state corporation United Aircraft Corporation reported that these machines are entirely new—newly manufactured equipment has been delivered to the army.
The manufacturer does not specify the exact size of the latest batch of Su-34s delivered to the Russian armed forces, but according to the Bulgarian Military portal, it includes two units. This number aligns with previous deliveries, as the Russians have recently received two machines in each batch.
New Su-34s for the Russian Army
It is noteworthy that the recently delivered Su-34s are new and were delivered under the current production schedule. This indicates that the Russians maintain the production capabilities of these valuable aircraft. According to the latest data, they are currently capable of producing 8-10 such machines annually, which pose a threat to the recently delivered F-16s to Ukraine.
It is worth noting, however, that while the Russian Federation continues to deliver new machines to its soldiers, subsequent batches hardly meet the substantial needs. The previous delivery of Su-34 fighter-bombers occurred in June of this year, and the one before that was in April.
Russia loses many Su-34s
However, the Ukrainians consistently neutralize such machines. As previously reported by Wirtualna Polska journalist Przemysław Juraszek, during an attack on the Marinovka base in Russia (in the last weeks of August this year), probably six Su-34 aircraft were eliminated, which is as many as the Russian Federation delivered in three batches spread over six months.
“The Su-34 aircraft delivered to the Russian armed forces are known for their excellent flight characteristics. They are highly sought after because they use high-precision ammunition with a universal planning module, which is highly effective in the air defense zone. The corporation is aware of the urgent need and commits to delivering the Su-34 on time,” commented Vladimir Artyakov, Deputy General Director of Rostec.
Universal fighter-bombers
The Su-34 fighter bomber is a truly versatile machine. It can carry weapons weighing almost 18,000 lbs on 12 pylons under its fuselage, including nuclear weapons. The basic armament is the standard 30 mm GSz-30-1 aircraft cannon.
The Su-34 multifunctional tactical bombers can accelerate to a speed of 1,180 mph, reaching at an altitude of 6.8 miles. This high performance is thanks to the AL-31F M1 turbojet engines. The aircraft's operational range reaches 2,485 miles, a distance the Su-34 can cover without additional refueling.
