Sukhoi Su-32FN – WalkAround

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The **Sukhoi Su-32** is the dedicated **export designation** for the Russian twin-engine, two-seat, all-weather supersonic strike aircraft known domestically as the **Su-34** (NATO reporting name: **Fullback**). It’s a heavy-duty fighter-bomber derived from the Su-27 ‘Flanker’ air superiority fighter, designed primarily for deep interdiction and precision strikes against ground and naval targets.

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Core Role and Capabilities

The aircraft’s main purpose is to replace the aging Su-24 ‘Fencer’ tactical bomber. It is engineered for autonomous and group combat operations, capable of operating day or night, under adverse weather, and in heavy electronic countermeasures (ECM) environments.

• **Mission:** Tactical bombing, deep strike, interdiction, anti-ship warfare, and aerial reconnaissance.
• **Performance:** Capable of achieving supersonic speeds and is designed for high-precision bombing using a wide range of guided and unguided munitions.

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Distinctive Design Features

The Su-32/Su-34 features several unique modifications that set it apart from its Su-27 lineage:

• **Side-by-Side Cockpit:** The most distinguishing feature is the large, wide forward fuselage housing a **side-by-side cockpit** for the pilot and weapon systems operator. This arrangement enhances crew coordination and long-mission comfort.
• **Armored Tub:** The crew compartment is protected by a substantial bath of **titanium armor** (approx 17 mm thick) to ensure high survivability against ground fire.
• **Long-Range Comfort:** The pressurized cabin is large enough for the crew to stand up, move around, and even contains a small galley and lavatory for **long-endurance missions** (up to 10 hours with aerial refueling).
• **Canards:** Small **canard foreplanes** are positioned near the cockpit to enhance lift and maneuverability.
• **Flattened Nose/Tail:** The nose is distinctly flattened, a feature sometimes linked to reducing radar cross-section. The tail boom is notably large, housing countermeasure systems and a rear-facing radar for self-defense.

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Summary Specifications

Feature	Detail
**Designation (Export/Domestic)**	Su-32 / Su-34 (‘Fullback’)
**Crew**	2 (Pilot and Weapon Systems Operator)
**Engines**	2 x Saturn AL-31F series Turbofans
**Maximum Speed**	approx 1,900 km/h (Mach 1.6)
**Armament Hardpoints**	12 external hardpoints
**Cannon**	30 mm GSh-301 internal gun
**Key Avionics**	Advanced multi-mode radar (Passive Phased Array) and state-of-the-art ECM suite.

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