Intro
Discover the key differences between two of the worlds most advanced fighter jets, the Su-35 and F-15. Compare their capabilities, design, and features, including maneuverability, radar systems, and combat range. Learn how these differences impact their performance in the skies, and which jet comes out on top in the Su-35 vs F-15 showdown.
The Su-35 and F-15 are two of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, with each having its own unique characteristics and capabilities. The Su-35 is a Russian-made multirole fighter, while the F-15 is an American-made air superiority fighter. In this article, we'll explore the 5 key differences between the Su-35 and F-15, highlighting their design, performance, armament, avionics, and operational capabilities.
The Su-35 and F-15 have distinct design philosophies, reflecting their respective countries' approaches to fighter jet design. The Su-35 has a more angular and faceted design, with a focus on stealth and maneuverability. Its airframe is made of titanium and composite materials, providing exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. In contrast, the F-15 has a more curved and aerodynamic design, with a focus on speed and range. Its airframe is made of aluminum and titanium, providing a balance between strength and weight.
Key Differences: Design and Aerodynamics
- Su-35:
- Angular and faceted design for stealth and maneuverability
- Airframe made of titanium and composite materials
- Canard foreplanes for improved stability and control
- F-15:
- Curved and aerodynamic design for speed and range
- Airframe made of aluminum and titanium
- No canard foreplanes, relying on wingtip-mounted thrust vectoring nozzles
The Su-35 and F-15 have different engine configurations, affecting their performance and range. The Su-35 is powered by two Saturn AL-41F1S turbofans, producing a combined 26,500 kgf (58,400 lbf) of thrust. In contrast, the F-15 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 turbofans, producing a combined 23,800 kgf (52,400 lbf) of thrust.
Key Differences: Performance and Range
- Su-35:
- Top speed: Mach 2.25 (1,491 mph)
- Range: 3,600 km (2,237 miles)
- Service ceiling: 18,000 m (59,055 ft)
- F-15:
- Top speed: Mach 2.5 (1,678 mph)
- Range: 5,550 km (3,450 miles)
- Service ceiling: 18,300 m (60,040 ft)
The Su-35 and F-15 have different armament configurations, reflecting their respective roles and operational requirements. The Su-35 is equipped with a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon and can carry a range of air-to-air missiles, including the R-77 and R-74M. In contrast, the F-15 is equipped with a 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon and can carry a range of air-to-air missiles, including the AIM-120 and AIM-7.
Key Differences: Armament
- Su-35:
- 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon
- R-77 and R-74M air-to-air missiles
- Kh-31A and Kh-59 air-to-surface missiles
- F-15:
- 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon
- AIM-120 and AIM-7 air-to-air missiles
- AGM-84 and AGM-158 air-to-surface missiles
The Su-35 and F-15 have different avionics configurations, reflecting their respective operational requirements and technological advancements. The Su-35 is equipped with a Phased Array Radar (PAR) and an Optical Locator System (OLS), providing exceptional air-to-air and air-to-surface capabilities. In contrast, the F-15 is equipped with an AN/APG-63(V)3 radar and a LANTIRN targeting system, providing exceptional air-to-air and air-to-surface capabilities.
Key Differences: Avionics
- Su-35:
- Phased Array Radar (PAR)
- Optical Locator System (OLS)
- Integrated Defensive Aids System (IDAS)
- F-15:
- AN/APG-63(V)3 radar
- LANTIRN targeting system
- Tactical Information Display System (TID)
The Su-35 and F-15 have different operational capabilities, reflecting their respective roles and operational requirements. The Su-35 is designed for air superiority and multirole operations, while the F-15 is designed for air superiority and escort operations.
Key Differences: Operational Capabilities
- Su-35:
- Air superiority and multirole operations
- Can perform air-to-air and air-to-surface missions
- Can operate in both day and night conditions
- F-15:
- Air superiority and escort operations
- Can perform air-to-air missions
- Can operate in both day and night conditions
Su-35 and F-15 Image Gallery
In conclusion, the Su-35 and F-15 are two exceptional fighter jets with distinct design philosophies, performance characteristics, armament configurations, avionics, and operational capabilities. While both aircraft are highly advanced and capable, they have different strengths and weaknesses, reflecting their respective roles and operational requirements.
We hope this article has provided a comprehensive comparison of the Su-35 and F-15, highlighting their key differences and similarities. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.