Intro
Unlock the ultimate air superiority showdown: Su-35s vs F-35. Discover the 5 key differences between Russias multirole Su-35 and the USs stealthy F-35, including design, avionics, maneuverability, radar capabilities, and combat effectiveness. Which fifth-gen fighter reigns supreme? Dive into the analysis and find out.
The world of military aviation has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, with various countries developing and deploying fifth-generation fighter jets. Two of the most prominent examples are the Russian Su-35 and the American F-35. While both aircraft are designed to dominate the skies, they have distinct differences in their design, capabilities, and purpose. In this article, we will delve into the 5 key differences between the Su-35 and the F-35.
Design and Development
Design and Development
The Su-35 is a multi-role fighter jet developed by Sukhoi, a Russian aerospace company. It is an upgraded version of the Su-27, with improvements in avionics, engines, and airframe. The Su-35 is designed to perform air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions.
On the other hand, the F-35 is a fifth-generation multi-role fighter jet developed by Lockheed Martin, an American aerospace company. The F-35 is designed to perform air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions, as well as providing real-time battlefield awareness.
Aerodynamics and Performance
Aerodynamics and Performance
The Su-35 has a unique design feature, with canard foreplanes and a horizontal tailplane, which provides exceptional maneuverability and stability. Its Saturn AL-41F1S engine produces 14,500 kgf (31,900 lbf) of thrust, allowing the aircraft to reach speeds of up to Mach 2.25 (1,700 mph).
In contrast, the F-35 has a more conventional design, with a single vertical tailplane and a horizontal tailplane. Its Pratt & Whitney F135 engine produces 22,000 lb-ft (30,000 Nm) of thrust, allowing the aircraft to reach speeds of up to Mach 1.6 (1,200 mph).
Avionics and Radar Systems
Avionics and Radar Systems
The Su-35 is equipped with the Phased Array Radar (PAR) system, which provides advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities. The PAR system has a detection range of up to 400 km (250 miles) and can track up to 30 targets simultaneously.
The F-35, on the other hand, is equipped with the AN/APG-81 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system, which provides advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities. The AN/APG-81 has a detection range of up to 500 km (310 miles) and can track up to 20 targets simultaneously.
Stealth Capabilities
Stealth Capabilities
The F-35 is designed to be a stealth aircraft, with a radar-absorbing skin and a unique design that reduces its radar cross-section. This makes it difficult for enemy radar systems to detect the aircraft.
In contrast, the Su-35 is not designed to be a stealth aircraft, although it has some features that reduce its radar cross-section, such as its radar-absorbing skin and serrated edges.
Cost and Production
Cost and Production
The Su-35 is estimated to cost around $80 million per unit, with a production rate of around 20 aircraft per year.
The F-35, on the other hand, is estimated to cost around $100 million per unit, with a production rate of around 100 aircraft per year.
Su-35 and F-35 Comparison Image Gallery
In conclusion, while both the Su-35 and the F-35 are advanced fighter jets, they have distinct differences in their design, capabilities, and purpose. The Su-35 is a highly maneuverable aircraft with advanced avionics and radar systems, while the F-35 is a stealth aircraft with advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the specific needs and requirements of the military.
We invite you to share your thoughts and opinions on the Su-35 and F-35 comparison. Which aircraft do you think is more advanced? What are the implications of these differences for military aviation? Let us know in the comments below!