- published: 26 Jun 2015
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The Sukhoi Su-34 (Russian: Сухой Су-34) (export designation: Su-32, NATO reporting name: Fullback) is a Russian twin-seat fighter-bomber. It is intended to replace the Sukhoi Su-24.
The Su-34 had a somewhat muddied and protracted beginning. In the mid-1980s, Sukhoi began developing a new multi-role tactical aircraft to replace the swing-wing Su-24, which would incorporate a host of somewhat conflicting requirements. The bureau thus selected the Su-27, which excelled in maneuverability and range, and could carry a large payload, as the basis for the new fighter. More specifically, the aircraft was developed from the naval trainer derivative of the Sukhoi Su-27K, the "T10KM-2". Known internally as "T-10V", the development was shelved towards the end of the 1980s due to the construction suspension of aircraft carriers; this was the result of the massive political upheaval in the Soviet Union experienced and the subsequent disintegration.
In August 1990, however, a photograph taken by a TASS officer showed an aircraft making a dummy approach towards Tbilisi. The aircraft, subsequently and erroneously labelled Su-27KU by Western intelligence, made its maiden flight on 13 August 1990 with Anatoliy Ivanov at the controls. Converted from an Su-27UB with the new distinctive nose, while retaining the main undercarriage of previous Su-27s, it was actually a prototype for the Su-27IB (Istrebitel Bombardirovshchik, or "fighter bomber"). It was developed in parallel with the two-seat naval trainer, the Su-27KUB, although, contrary to earlier reports, the two aircraft are not directly related. Flight tests continued throughout 1990 and into 1991.