Russia Delivers New Su-34 Fighter Bombers and Boosts Production Amid International Sanctions

On April 19, 2025, the Russian state defense conglomerate Rostec announced that the country’s defense industry is enhancing its aerial combat capabilities with the recent addition of Su-34 fighter-bombers to the Russian Air Force. Manufactured by United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), a major entity in Russia’s aerospace and defense sector, these aircraft signify a substantial boost in production capacity, which has more than doubled in the last two years.

The Su-34, known by NATO as “Fullback,” is a contemporary twin-seat, twin-engine strike fighter designed to target ground, surface, and aerial threats, including those shielded by advanced air defense systems. With a remarkable operational range and sophisticated avionics, this aircraft is built to function effectively in high-threat scenarios and challenging weather conditions, both day and night, across diverse military operational theaters.

Fitted with an extensive array of guided and unguided munitions for air-to-ground and air-to-air engagements, the Su-34 is also capable of performing aerial reconnaissance. It is regarded as a fundamental component of Russia’s tactical air strike capabilities, particularly in intricate combat environments.

Vladimir Artyakov, First Deputy General Director of Rostec, emphasized that the Su-34 is essential to the striking power of Russian frontline aviation. He described the aircraft as the best in its category, playing a vital role in executing critical operational objectives during the Russia-Ukraine War. Artyakov pointed out its high efficiency, exceptional maneuverability, and robust combat capabilities. He also mentioned the increasing demand for the Su-34 within the military and confirmed that Russian aircraft manufacturers are actively ramping up production of this fighter-bomber.

All newly delivered aircraft have successfully undergone a comprehensive factory acceptance testing cycle, confirming their performance across various operational scenarios prior to being assigned to their respective airfields.

This increase in production occurs despite the severe international sanctions placed on Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions, intended to limit Russia’s access to foreign technologies and essential components, have not hindered the production of combat aircraft. In fact, Russia has not only maintained but has also significantly enhanced its domestic aerospace manufacturing capabilities. The production of the Su-34, in particular, has more than doubled in the last two years, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the Russian defense sector amid economic and technological challenges.

Regarding fighter aircraft technology, the Su-34 is a significantly upgraded version of the Su-27 platform, specifically modified for long-range strike operations. It boasts a side-by-side cockpit layout, sophisticated navigation and targeting systems, and a considerable payload capacity. The aircraft is outfitted with a modern radar system, electronic warfare capabilities, and a comprehensive self-defense suite, enabling it to function independently in high-threat environments.

When compared to Western aircraft, the Su-34’s role is most similar to that of the American F-15E Strike Eagle and the European Tornado IDS, both of which are designed for deep interdiction missions utilizing precision-guided munitions. Although it is not a stealth aircraft, the Su-34 compensates with its long range, high speed, and capacity to carry a diverse range of armaments. It remains a highly adaptable platform within the fourth-generation-plus category, providing a combination of strike, reconnaissance, and limited air combat capabilities. Despite the technological gaps with fifth-generation aircraft like the F-35, the Su-34 continues to be a vital element of Russia’s aerial strike capabilities.