Su-35 Flanker-G (Su-27M)

The Su-35 is a major modernization of the Su-27 fighter family. United Aircraft Corporation describes it as a deep modernization intended to improve effectiveness against air, land and sea targets. The aircraft shows Russia’s strategy of extracting high-end capability from a mature large fighter airframe rather than replacing every role with a stealth platform.

Su-35 capability is often discussed through thrust vectoring and maneuverability, but its practical value also depends on radar, electronic warfare, missiles and pilot training. The large Flanker airframe gives range and payload margins, making it useful for air superiority, escort and strike support missions.

The Su-35 matters because it represents Russia’s most prominent non-stealth fighter in service and export marketing. Combat reporting and export politics have made its reputation contested, so the page should separate claimed design strengths from actual force employment and availability.