High TTH is still insufficient: how the Russians were forced to use SU-35 ineffectively
Despite the impressive technical characteristics and combat capabilities, this aircraft faced a number of difficulties that did not fully allow it to realize its potential. Bulgarian Military Viewers were told about the reasons for the inefficient use of the SU-35 during the Russian-Ukrainian war. So, Su-35 is a modern Russian multi-purpose fighter that combines elements of aircraft of the fourth and fifth generations.
It is equipped with advanced avionic, powerful engines and weapons, which makes it one of the most gripped aircraft in the Russian arsenal. However, according to American expert Brendon Weikhert, the problem is not in the aircraft itself, but in the conditions in which it is used. The Su-35 fighter was designed to conduct hostilities at high altitudes and damage to goals outside of visual range.
However, Ukrainian troops use modern air defense systems such as Patriot, NASAMS, Iris-T and old, but still effective C-300 and C-200. These systems force Russian aircraft to fly at lower altitudes, which reduces their advantage and makes them vulnerable to anti -aircraft complexes and portable anti -aircraft missile systems (MAG). Weikhert notes the similarity with the tactics used by the Allies in the Second World War, when the pilots flew at low altitudes to accurately strike.
But if it was a forced event then to more accurately strike the enemy's goals, today Russian pilots are forced to fly below the pressure of Ukrainian air defense. This tactic is presented by Su-35 on additional threats, and the aircraft cannot work at the optimum level, which reduces its efficiency. In addition to tactical problems, Su-35 faces the challenges of an economic and technological nature. High operating costs and complexity of service make this aircraft expensive.
Moreover, a limited volume of production - and this, according to observers, about 100 units as of 2021, reduces its value in the overall strategy of Russia. Technological progress in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles also calls into question the relevance of this fighter. Modern UAVs can perform many functions that have previously relied on manned fighters, which reduces the strategic importance of planes such as Su-35. In conclusion, the observers noted another nuance.