A special “industry” of military aviation is its bombers. The purpose of these aircraft is clear from their name: they are used to hit enemy ground and surface targets using a wide range of bombs and missiles. To date, long-range strategic bomber aircraft are represented by Tu-95MS and Tu-160, the “distant” Tu-22M3, as well as front-line “bombers”. The role of the latter are aircraft Su-34 and Su-24. They perform tactical functions.
How justified are their existence?
It is important to understand that in modern military aviation it is very difficult to distinguish a ground attack aircraft from a bomber or even a multirole fighter, as they are very similar to each other both in appearance and in the range of tasks that they can perform. But this impression is erroneous: in particular, the very Su-34 aircraft, although very similar to fighters, are extremely vulnerable in air combat.
They are given shape only to ensure high aerodynamic efficiency and fuel economy, which with their long range and high bomb load is an extremely important condition. However, some modern fighters (for example, the domestic T-50 or the "American" F-35) may well be used as bombers. But specialized "bombers" are still better suited to play this role, as they have a large radius of action and can carry a large number of powerful bombs and / or missiles.
Current state of affairs
Note that the NATO unit did not have specialized bombers, such as Su-34 aircraft, in principle, since universal aircraft took their place. For example, the last specialized Lockheed F-117 was cut to metal back in 2008. The role of tactical bombers in the radius of the frontline strip is now assigned to the F-15E and F-16; the fleet uses F / A-18 for these tasks, aka the Hornet.
Against this background, our country stands apart, having two specialized bombers at once: Su-24 and Su-34. Today we will talk about the most modern modification. Moreover, the model of the Su-34 is unique, as it combines the features of an attack aircraft and a bomber. Unlike the Americans, who wanted to make a “prodigy” in the face of the F-22, our engineers took the path of greatest expediency, as a result of which the new machine effectively performs all its tasks.
Front-line bomber Su-34
Today, this plane has high hopes, as it should provide the main power of strike aircraft of the country. The on-board equipment of the machine is such that it can use the entire existing domestic range of air-to-surface weapons. Initially, the Su-34 aircraft were created to replace the old Su-24M. Currently, the production of this equipment is one of the priority areas of the entire defense industry, considerable funds are allocated for these purposes. And to argue with such a statement is very difficult.
If at the time of bringing Georgians to peace, our army had only two such aircraft at its disposal, then, as of mid-2015, there were 69 units of them in the troops. At the May Victory Parade, 14 such vehicles were seen. There is information that our country should have at least 150-200 of these aircraft.
Development start
Alas, even the legendary Su-34 is not a purely Russian invention. Its design was started on June 19, 1986. The prototype first flew on April 13, 1990. It should be noted that Soviet engineers did not begin to develop a new machine from scratch, taking advantage of developments on the Su-27. This aircraft was created specifically to replace the Su-24, which had already managed to become significantly obsolete.
"Novice" was intended to work at any time of the day or night, in any weather conditions, for ground and water (on the situation) purposes. A feature of the new machine was that the pilots could much more confidently resist the attack of enemy aircraft. Of course, the Su-34 military aircraft does not reach the attack aircraft, but it is not a defenseless duck either.
Long way to debut
The chief designer was appointed Rolland Martirosov. As we said, the prototype flew back in 1990, but the car’s further path to adoption was inexcusably delayed.
So, the main stages of the State sea trials ended only at the end of 2010. And only in 2014, the Su-34 military aircraft was officially adopted. Interestingly, the bomber went into the series … since 2006! The issue was handled by the Sukhoi holding company represented by the Novosibirsk Aviation Plant named after the famous pilot Chkalov. Under two contracts concluded in 2008 and 2012, it is planned to supply 124 aircraft. Since last year, the Department of Defense has reported that production has already reached 14-20 aircraft per year. So, already in 2014, 18 cars were delivered, when the plan provided for 16 units.
Differences from the progenitor
As we said, the Su-27 became the predecessor of the bomber. By the way, by the number of borrowings that were taken from him, this aircraft is the undisputed leader. So, even in the design of the legendary Su-47 "Golden Eagle" were used developments on the Su-27. However, we were distracted.
So, the cantilever parts of the wings were taken from the "donor" almost without changes, and the tail plumage was also borrowed. However, the shape of the fuselage was significantly changed in the name of improving aerodynamic qualities. But kinship is still visible with the naked eye.
The nose of the new car was significantly lengthened, since a special radar antenna did not fit into it. The nose cone has become more flattened and rounded. Inside this part is also a separate radar antenna. Russian aircraft Su-34 does not have dorsal ridges.
Cabin and working conditions of pilots
The cabin is double, completely sealed. For the first time in aircraft of this class (worldwide, by the way), it is made in the form of a fully titanium capsule with a wall thickness of 17 mm. Its glazing, following the example of the experience of the Mi-24 helicopter, is also armored. In many ways, this approach was due to the spread of MANPADS, missiles which are designed specifically for the defeat of pilots. Air in the cockpit is heated or air-conditioned according to the situation. For the first time, the crew’s shoulder-to-shoulder landing scheme was applied. This simplifies the interaction between pilots, reduces fatigue when performing complex maneuvers.
On the left is the pilot, on the right is the navigator. Unlike other tactical bombers, the Su-34 aircraft (the photo of which is in the article) has such a spacious cabin that you can easily get up and even walk in it. If the flight is long, pilots can take turns sleeping in the aisle. There is also a microwave for heating rations and a bathroom. Pilots come into the cockpit from the stern, using a folding ladder.
Combat capabilities of the machine
It is believed that the aircraft belongs to the class 4+. The on-board computer has a number of completely new programs that can significantly increase the combat survivability of the machine, ensuring its high maneuverability. This will enable the navigator and the pilot himself to pay more attention to the bombing itself.
The aircraft has excellent aerodynamic characteristics, has capacious fuel tanks, and can be refueled in the air. The presence of highly efficient engines with high efficiency, as well as the ability to install additional tanks allow you to make extremely long flights. Experience shows that the Su-34 can be in the air for at least 10 hours.
At the same time, the load on the pilots does not exceed the standard, since during the flight they can rest. An important difference between this model and its predecessor is the complete openness of electronic equipment, as well as its modular design. Thanks to this, any component of the on-board electronics can be replaced with a new, more efficient analogue. In general, this feature is characteristic of Sukhoi’s products, thanks to which vehicles of this brand have taken a dominant position in the Russian Air Force.
Impact capabilities and self-defense
The aircraft is characterized by high-resolution sights, a data exchange system with ground forces, airplanes and surface ships. The use of this equipment allows you to better interact with various branches of the armed forces and increase the effectiveness of combat use. As we said, the machine is characterized by the ability to use all modern "smart" bombs and missiles, including those using multi-channel guidance systems.
Radar counteraction and active jamming systems - this is another “highlight” that distinguishes the Su-34 (we analyze its characteristics). This equipment dramatically increases the chances of a combat vehicle to survive in conditions of maneuverable combat. Given the armored cockpit, the life of pilots is protected at the highest level. Today, experts continue to work to improve the combat performance of this wonderful aircraft, focusing on expanding the variety of weapons that pilots can use to defeat the enemy.
Practical use
This bomber has already been used twice in the course of real hostilities. The first episode dates from 2008. These two aircraft were successfully used by our aviation, suppressing the identified points of the Georgian missile defense. To prevent enemy crews from aiming at strike aircraft, the legendary Su-34 was also used to set active interference. In addition, directed missiles were carried out at the Georgian Bukam and S-125. The main victory in that war, experts recognize the complete destruction of the enemy radar 36D6-M, which was located near Gori. It is also the merit of the machine we are describing.
