Ukraine Intensifies Focus on Destroying Su-34 Fighters as Russia Boosts Production

Ukraine has prioritized the destruction of the Russian Su-34 jets at a time when Moscow has delivered three batches of these fighters to the Russian aerospace forces, more than that of any other combat aircraft.

"The destruction of these jets is a priority," the author of an article in Military, a specialist military blog in Ukraine adding that the Su-34s are the main tactical aircraft that carry out missile and bomb attacks on Ukrainian positions on the front line and in the border areas.

Recently, Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has delivered a third batch of Su-34 fighter-bombers this year, following earlier deliveries in April and June.

The Su-34, distinguished by its side-by-side seating and heavy payload capacity, has become a key asset in the conflict with Ukraine. The newly produced Su-34s are larger and more versatile than the Su-35, with an even greater payload capacity, making them the preferred choice for conducting strikes against Ukrainian targets.

Recently, Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) delivered a third batch of Su-34 fighter-bombers, following earlier deliveries in April and June. These newly produced Su-34s are larger and more versatile than the Su-35, with an increased payload capacity, making them the preferred choice for strikes against Ukrainian targets.

In December 2023, Ukrainian Patriot missiles downed three Su-34 jets over southern Ukraine. The aircraft were lured into a trap and struck by missiles after releasing their bombs at high altitude. Ukrainian forces had positioned M903 Patriot launchers along the Dnieper River and activated radar only after detecting the Su-34s, allowing for precise targeting. The Su-34s, lacking anti-radar missiles, could not evade the attack, raising concerns about their countermeasures.

The latest Su-34s feature upgraded weapons control systems for deploying OFAB gliding guided bombs, thermobaric UODAB-500 bombs, and advanced GLONASS correction modules.

Additionally, they were upgraded late last year to carry the Khinzhal hypersonic missile, enhancing their strike capabilities.

Given their advanced features, Su-34s remain a high-priority target for Ukrainian air defenses, underscoring the importance of countering this advanced bomber in the ongoing conflict.