Mikoyan MiG-35 vs. Sukhoi Su-35

The Mikoyan MiG-35 (NATO codename "Fulcrum-F) is a 4++ generation multirole fighter aircraft developed from the MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB. Introduced in the 2000s by Russia, the MiG-35 represents the pinnacle of the Fulcrum series, incorporating advanced technology to meet the demands of modern warfare.

Production History: The development of the MiG-35 began as an advancement of the MiG-29 program, aiming to extend the aircraft's service life and compete against Western 4th generation fighters. The MiG-35 made its first public appearance in 2007, with the Russian Air Force expressing interest in acquiring the aircraft to modernize its fleet. While initially proposed in the early 2000s, the MiG-35 has seen various delays, with commencement of operational testing by the Russian military occurring from 2016 to 2017.

Design Features: The MiG-35 features improved aerodynamics and reduced radar cross-section over its predecessors. It is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, including a phased array radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, and a sophisticated glass cockpit. The aircraft's propulsion system is upgraded with new engines that enable supersonic flight without afterburners. The MiG-35 is capable of carrying a wide range of Russian and international weapons on its nine hardpoints, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, and precision-guided bombs.

Operational History: As of the last update, the MiG-35 is in the late stages of development and testing, with the Russian Air Force conducting comprehensive evaluations. The aircraft has been showcased in international air shows and offered to foreign buyers as a highly capable multirole fighter. While not yet combat-proven, the MiG-35 is expected to serve as a versatile platform capable of executing a wide array of missions, from air superiority to ground attack and reconnaissance.

Comparison with Similar Models:

MiG-35 vs. MiG-29

Role and Capabilities: The MiG-35 is an evolution of the MiG-29, designed to extend the capabilities of the Fulcrum series into the next generation of air combat. It offers significant advancements in radar, avionics, and weapon systems.

Performance: With enhanced engines and aerodynamics, the MiG-35 provides superior agility, speed, and range compared to the MiG-29. Its ability to perform supersonic flights without afterburners and increased payload capacity make it a formidable opponent in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.

MiG-35 vs. F-16 Fighting Falcon

Design Evolution: While the F-16 is a 4th generation multirole fighter renowned for its versatility and agility, the MiG-35 represents a 4++ generation development, incorporating advances in stealth, avionics, and operational capabilities beyond the original Fulcrum design.

Operational Capabilities: The MiG-35's modern avionics suite, including AESA radar and enhanced electronic warfare systems, offers a competitive edge in detecting and engaging threats at greater distances. In contrast, the F-16 has undergone numerous upgrades to maintain its effectiveness, with the latest variants featuring advanced radar and precision weapons.

The Sukhoi Su-35 "Flanker-E" is an advanced multirole fighter aircraft developed from the Su-27. Introduced into service with the Russian Air Force in 2014, the Su-35 is designed to achieve air superiority through superior maneuverability, sophisticated avionics, and formidable firepower. Its capabilities make it one of the most powerful aircraft in the modern aerial combat arena.

Production History: Development of the Su-35 began in the late 1980s as an improvement over the original Su-27, with a focus on upgrading the airframe, propulsion, and avionics. The project saw several iterations, culminating in the Su-35S variant, which features extensive improvements over its predecessors. The aircraft entered serial production in the late 2000s, with the Russian Air Force being the primary operator.

Design Features: The Su-35 employs a reinforced airframe that allows for greater agility and speed, with large canard foreplanes and an updated wing structure to enhance its aerodynamic performance. It is powered by two Saturn AL-41F1S afterburning turbofan engines, equipped with thrust vectoring control, granting it exceptional maneuverability.

Operational History: The Su-35 has been deployed in various operational theaters, showcasing its advanced capabilities. Notably, it has been used in the Syrian conflict, where it performed air superiority and ground-attack missions. The aircraft's performance in combat and training exercises has demonstrated its role as a formidable adversary against contemporary fighter jets.

Comparison with Similar Models:

Su-35 "Flanker-E" vs. Su-30MKI

Technological Upgrades: The Su-35 features significant improvements over the Su-30MKI, including enhanced engines with thrust vectoring, a more advanced radar system, and superior avionics. These upgrades provide the Su-35 with better performance and operational capabilities.

Role and Versatility: While both aircraft are versatile multirole fighters, the Su-35 is optimized for air superiority with additional enhancements for ground and sea attack roles, making it more adept in a wider range of combat scenarios.

Su-35 "Flanker-E" vs. F-15E Strike Eagle

Maneuverability and Performance: The Su-35's thrust-vectoring engines and aerodynamic design give it an edge in maneuverability and close-quarters combat compared to the F-15E, which is more focused on strike missions with its heavy payload capacity and advanced targeting systems.

Avionics and Armament: Both aircraft are equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and capable of carrying a wide range of weaponry. The F-15E has been continuously updated with modern technology, but the Su-35's newer design integrates more recent advancements in radar technology and electronic warfare.