New Su-34 Deliveries to Russian Forces Struggle to Offset Heavy Losses in 2024

 

The United Aviation Corporation (UAC) recently announced via Telegram on June 17 that they have delivered new Su-34 Fullback fighter-bombers to the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS or RuAF). Although the exact number was not specified, images suggest that two aircraft were delivered. 

This delivery is part of a scheduled state order, as stated by Vladimir Artyakov, first deputy general director of Rostec. He emphasized that Rostec aviation enterprises are maintaining consistent aircraft deliveries according to the year's production plan. Yuriy Slyusar, General Director of UAC, highlighted the company's efforts to enhance production, including recruiting over 600 new employees in Novosibirsk this year.

This marks the second delivery of Su-34s in 2024, with the first in April, where UAC showcased two planes taking off. Since January, only four Su-34s have been delivered. However, reports suggest Russia is struggling to offset significant losses, with at least five Su-34s reportedly destroyed in a Ukrainian drone attack on June 14 and claims of ten more shot down earlier in the year. Visual confirmations indicate Russia has lost 26 Su-34s since the invasion began in February 2022.

The Su-34 has become a key asset for the Russian VKS in Ukraine, capable of carrying FAB-500M62 homing bombs. Despite a decrease in air-to-surface missile attacks, the use of cruise bombs has increased. These bombs, equipped with flight control surfaces, allow for launches from a distance, reducing vulnerability to enemy defenses.

The Su-34 Fullback, developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau, is a twin-engine, all-weather supersonic medium-range fighter-bomber designed for tactical deployment against ground and naval targets and reconnaissance missions. It replaces the older Su-24 Fencer in the Russian Air Force.

The Su-34 measures approximately 23.34 meters in length, with a wingspan of 14.7 meters and a height of 6.09 meters, providing substantial payload capacity and versatility. It is powered by two Saturn AL-31F turbofan engines, each providing 123 kN of thrust, allowing for a maximum speed of Mach 1.8.

Equipped with advanced avionics, including the Leninets V004 radar and the Khibiny ECM suite, the Su-34 offers enhanced combat capabilities. Its digital fly-by-wire control system and modern glass cockpit with multifunctional displays improve maneuverability and pilot efficiency. The Su-34 carries a wide array of air-to-ground munitions and air-to-air missiles, along with a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon.

With a combat radius of approximately 1,100 kilometers and a ferry range of up to 4,000 kilometers with external tanks, the Su-34 can also be refueled in flight, extending its operational range and mission endurance.

Despite its advanced capabilities, the Su-34's production struggles to keep pace with battlefield losses, highlighting the challenges facing the Russian Aerospace Forces in the ongoing conflict.

Ukraine Strikes Russian Su-34s: Drone Attack on Morozovsk Airfield 250km Behind Frontlines

 

On June 14, satellite images confirmed a successful drone strike by the Ukrainian Armed Forces on Morozovsk Airfield in Russia’s Rostov region, about 250 kilometers from the frontlines. The attack, which occurred on June 13, highlights the airfield's crucial role in supporting Russian Air Force operations in Ukraine, particularly as a base for Su-34 strike fighters.

The extent of the damage remains uncertain, but initial reports suggest no aircraft were destroyed. The vulnerability of Russian airbases to drone strikes is a growing concern, indicating potential for more frequent attacks due to limited air defense capabilities.

Ukraine’s ability to target key Russian sites has been significantly bolstered by American ATACMS ballistic missiles and support from Western specialists, NATO satellite networks, and air surveillance data. In mid-May, ATACMS missiles were used to strike Russia’s Belbek Air Base in Crimea, destroying two MiG-31 interceptors. Additionally, a drone attack targeted a Voronezh-DM radar system in Armavir, a critical component of Russia’s defense against Western missile threats.

In response, the U.S. has eased restrictions on Ukrainian operations, allowing deeper strikes within Russia using American weaponry. Consequently, Russia deployed an S-500 system in June to enhance its missile defense capabilities.

Ukraine's increased focus on drone and missile strikes comes amid ground setbacks and heavy casualties, allowing the Russian Army to gain territory since late 2022. The drone strike on Morozovsk Airport, targeting Su-34s, seems to be retaliation for Russian airstrikes on June 12, which hit a Ukrainian command post in the Northern Military District zone using high-explosive aviation bombs with precision modules.

On June 13, Russian media shared images of a pontoon crossing over the Pecheneg Dam in Kharkiv Oblast, destroyed by a Su-34 strike using a Kh-38MLE missile. The attack submerged several sections of the crossing, with footage capturing two Ukrainian military trucks approaching just before the missile hit.

The bridge in Stari Saltov across the Seversky Donets has been a repeated target, initially destroyed early in the conflict and rebuilt by Ukrainian engineers. This continued targeting underscores the strategic importance of these crossings in the ongoing conflict.

On February 21, 2022, Russia claimed a border facility attack by Ukrainian forces, which Ukraine denied as false flags. That same day, Russia recognized the self-proclaimed areas of DPR and LPR, and subsequently, Putin sent military forces into these regions. This action escalated on February 24, 2022, with Putin launching a full-scale assault on Ukraine, labeled as a "special military operation" by Russia.

Despite rumors, the U.S. may not provide Ukraine with ATACMS missiles with a 300km range, maintaining the focus on current support measures.

Australian E-7A Wedgetail Ends Mission Supporting Ukraine After Successful Surveillance Deployment

 The Royal Australian Air Force's E-7A Wedgetail aircraft, part of Operation Kudu aiding Ukrainian forces, is set to return home after a six-month mission in Europe. The Wedgetail played a pivotal role in Ukraine, contributing to the downing of Russian Su-34s, according to experts.

Australia's Defense Ministry announced the E-7A's return, highlighting its mission in providing crucial surveillance over Eastern Europe. The aircraft logged over 250 flight hours, aiding in both military and humanitarian efforts.

Lieutenant General Greg Bilton praised the ADF personnel's support, emphasizing Australia's commitment to upholding global order. Air Marshal Robert Chipman lauded the Wedgetail's capabilities and the dedication of Australian personnel.

While the E-7A's return marks the end of this chapter, Australia's military assistance to Ukraine will continue. Operation Kudu's expanded training element will provide vital support throughout 2024.

Speculation surrounds the E-7A's role in the downing of Russian Su-34s, attributed to its superior capabilities against Russian defenses. Despite Australia's clarification that it did not facilitate attacks, the Wedgetail played a crucial role in safeguarding international aid flow to Ukraine.

Operating outside Russian airspace, the E-7A provided early warnings of potential threats, filling a capability gap NATO couldn't address. With its mission concluding, there will be no gap in Western monitoring capabilities.