Russian Su-34NVO pilots, operating a supersonic fighter-bomber with advanced navigation and external systems, have developed a method to significantly extend the range of their FAB-3000M-54 bombs. According to military analyst Yevgeny Damantsev, these pilots are employing a tactic where the aircraft ascends into the lower stratosphere, achieving altitudes between 14,500 and 15,500 meters. At these heights, they release the bombs while traveling at transonic speeds and with a slight nose-up attitude, enabling the bombs to reach ranges of 70-80 kilometers.
However, this technique is not without its risks. Damantsev highlights that the Su-34NVOs could become targets for the Patriot PAC-2 GEM-T/C air defense systems, which might be positioned to intercept these high-altitude, long-range deliveries.
Spin Maneuver Overview
In aviation, a spin is a complex aerobatic maneuver involving a helical descent as the aircraft rotates around its vertical axis. To execute a spin about the transverse axis, the pilot must first induce a stall by increasing the angle of attack until lift is lost. This is generally achieved by pulling back on the control stick to raise the aircraft’s nose.
Once stalled, the pilot applies full rudder input in the desired spin direction while maintaining back pressure on the stick, causing asymmetric lift and initiating the spin. Managing the elevator control is crucial to maintain the spin and ensure the aircraft’s nose remains properly positioned. The pilot must continuously monitor attitude, airspeed, and altitude, coordinating ailerons, rudder, and elevator inputs to control the spin and prevent an unintended recovery or hazardous condition.
Recovery involves neutralizing the ailerons, applying opposite rudder to halt the rotation, and pushing the control stick forward to exit the stall. After rotation ceases, the pilot can gradually pull out of the dive to return to stable flight. Mastery of this maneuver demands extensive training and precision.
Su-34 NVO Specifications
The Su-34 NVO, an enhanced variant of the Su-34, is a Russian twin-engine, all-weather supersonic medium-range fighter-bomber. The ‘NVO’ designation denotes its tailored modifications for specific operational roles. This aircraft excels in deep strike, interdiction, and close air support missions, offering a balance of aerodynamic performance and payload capacity essential for its multi-role function.
Measuring approximately 23.34 meters in length, 14.7 meters in wingspan, and 6.09 meters in height, the Su-34 NVO maintains the fundamental dimensions of the Su-34 while optimizing performance and capacity. It is powered by two Saturn AL-31F turbofan engines, each generating around 123 kN of thrust with afterburners, enabling speeds up to Mach 1.8 and a range of approximately 4,000 kilometers. The inclusion of an in-flight refueling probe further extends its operational range.
Su-34 NVO vs. Su-34M
The Su-34 NVO is distinguished from the Su-34M primarily by its advanced avionics and mission-specific enhancements. The Su-34M, a modernized version, features superior avionics, improved radar systems, and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities. While the Su-34 NVO emphasizes operational versatility and adaptability, the Su-34M focuses on advanced technological upgrades and increased combat effectiveness, reflecting the evolving needs of the Russian Air Force.
