Tthe 수호이 수-17UM3is a two-seat, advanced operational trainer variant of the venerable Soviet Su-17 variable-sweep wing fighter-bomber (NATO designation “Fitter”). It was developed from the earlier Su-17UM, incorporating the improved avionics and systems of the single-seat Su-17M3 ground-attack aircraft.
Design and Role
Trainer Configuration:
Primary role is to provide advanced training and conversion for pilots transitioning to the high-performance Su-17/22 family of attack jets.
It features a tandem two-seat cockpit, with the instructor occupying the rear seat.
The aircraft utilizes a raised, deeper dorsal spine (similar to the single-seat Su-17M3) to accommodate additional avionics and fuel tankage, compensating for the weight and space taken up by the second cockpit.
Variable-Sweep Wings:
Like all Su-17 variants, the Su-17UM3 uses the signature variable-sweep outer wing panels, allowing for excellent low-speed handling (takeoff/landing) and high-speed performance (supersonic flight) in a single airframe.
The sweep angle can be configured between approximately 30° and 63°.
Operational Capability:
Although primarily a trainer, the Su-17UM3 retains significant combat capability, sharing the weapon hardpoints and weapon delivery systems of the single-seat variants.
It is typically powered by the Lyulka AL-21F-3 afterburning turbojet engine (unlike some export trainers, the Su-22UM3, which used the Tumansky R-29 engine).
General Specifications (Approximate, based on Su-17M3/UM3 data)