Sukhoi Su-34 ‘Fullback' - Russia's 21st Century Striker

Su-34 The Su-34 ‘Fullback’ was developed from the Su-27 ‘Flanker’ interceptor/fighter as a fourth plus generation strike aircraft for service with the Russian Air Force. Conceived in the twilight years of the Soviet Union, the aircraft weathered the financial crisis that gripped post-communist Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990’s, maturing into an advanced strike aircraft, deliveries to the Russian Air Force commencing in late 2006. The aircraft is currently in service with increasing numbers being ordered to replace those countries aging fleet of Su-24M/M2 strike aircraft. It is also planned for the Su-34 to replace the Su-24MR in the tactical reconnaissance role. This volume covers the program from conception to operational service with chapters describing the aircraft, systems and weapons, production, flight testing and initial service. The text is complimented by black and white photographs.