Sukhoi Su-35S

The Su-35S "Flanker-E" is the Russian 4++-generation air-superiority fighter, a deeply evolved Su-27. Two Saturn AL-41F1S turbofans with thrust-vector control (TVC, 3D vectoring up to ±15°), enabling extreme post-stall maneuvers (cobra, kulbit, herakles). Sensors: Irbis-E PESA radar (the Russians claim detection of 0.01 m² targets at 90 km, not independently verified; AESA per Western analyses is more modern, but the Irbis is an exceptionally powerful PESA radar), OLS-35 IRST in a glass ball ahead of the cockpit. Weapons: R-77/RVV-AE (BVR active radar), R-73/74 (short-range, IIR), R-37M (long-range BVR Mach 6 missile, 200+ km). Combat record in Ukraine: mixed; Su-35s hold air superiority in their own airspace under the S-400 umbrella but have been shot down several times by Ukrainian Patriot and F-16 in 2024–2025. Users: Russia, China (24, dissatisfied with capability), Egypt (cancelled under CAATSA pressure 2020), Iran (order reported 2023, partially delivered 2024–2025), Algeria.