🔥 Trending Sukhoi Su-35 Fighter Jet Downed Amidst Conflict

On July 8, 2026, a Russian Sukhoi Su-35S multirole fighter jet was reportedly shot down by Ukrainian forces on the eastern front ⁷⁸. The incident was observed by a Ukrainian quadcopter, and an FPV (First Person View) drone later visited the crash site ⁷. This event adds to Russia's aviation losses in the ongoing conflict ⁸.

Background of the Su-35 Flanker-E

The Sukhoi Su-35, often referred to as the "Flanker-E," is a highly capable non-stealth fighter jet that entered Russian service in 2014 ¹. Its design is an evolution of the Su-27, with the prototype T-10M-1 first flying on June 28, 1988 ². The Su-35 has seen combat deployment in Syria and is extensively used in the Ukraine war, where it has both achieved kills and suffered losses ¹.

Current Status and Production

Despite losses, the Su-35S has become a preferred fighter platform for Moscow, and Russia continues to bolster its fleet ⁶. The Russian Aerospace Forces have received multiple new batches of Su-35 fighter aircraft throughout 2026, with deliveries reported in March, May, June, August, and September ⁵. This surge in production aims to accelerate the expansion of the fleet ⁵.

Russia is also producing Su-35 aircraft for export. As of July 1, 2026, production for the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF) is ongoing, although deliveries are delayed pending reconstruction work at Iran's Hamadan Airbase ⁴.

Technological Advancements

In an effort to enhance its capabilities, Russia has unveiled a new Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar for the Su-35, replacing the older Irbis-E ¹⁰. This upgrade is expected to significantly improve long-range air combat performance against advanced fighters like the F-15EX and J-16, by enhancing R-37M missile guidance and electronic warfare capabilities ¹⁰.

Challenges and Alternatives

Replacing lost Su-35s can be challenging for Russia ². While the Su-35 is a sophisticated aircraft, the Sukhoi Su-30SM2, a less complex derivative, is considered a more cost-effective and easier-to-maintain alternative, while still being effective for strike missions and pilot training ³.

Russia claimed to produce 20 new Su-35S fighters in 2025-2026, but the actual production rates and their role in escorting Su-34 aircraft carrying guided glide bombs raise questions ⁹.