Russia’s Su-35 Fighters Falling from the Skies: Ukrainian Air Defense Success
In recent months, Russia’s Su-35 fighter jets—one of the most advanced aircraft in the Russian fleet—have suffered significant losses over Ukraine. Despite their cutting-edge technology, the Su-35 jets have been increasingly vulnerable to Ukrainian air defenses, particularly those equipped with advanced Western-supplied missile systems.
Key Challenges Facing Russia’s Su-35s
1. Vulnerability to Western Air Defense Systems:
The Su-35s have been frequently downed by Western air defense systems deployed by Ukraine, particularly the Patriot missile systems. These defense systems, combined with sophisticated Ukrainian tactics, have neutralized much of the Su-35’s aerial superiority. Reports indicate that Ukrainian forces have developed effective countermeasures, reducing the effectiveness of the Su-35’s advanced avionics and thrust-vectoring capabilities.
2. Operational Failures:
Russia’s Su-35 jets have encountered operational challenges, including equipment malfunctions and logistical failures. Several jets have been lost due to operational issues that have grounded them or led to crashes, making the Su-35’s underperformance in combat a significant concern. These failures have exposed weaknesses in Russia’s air campaign, as the aircraft often cannot operate effectively in the contested skies of Ukraine.
3. Significant Losses:
In the last few months, the number of Su-35s downed has continued to rise, with some estimates indicating over 70 aircraft have been lost since the start of the conflict. This includes two Su-35s downed in a single day during February 2024, a major blow to the Russian air force. The loss of these jets has strained Russia’s ability to maintain air superiority, forcing it to rely more on older aircraft and to increase production of the Su-57 stealth fighter to compensate.
Broader Implications for Russia’s Air Campaign
The loss of these advanced jets reflects deeper issues within Russia’s military strategy in Ukraine. While the Su-35 was designed to challenge the best Western aircraft, it has struggled in the current battlefield environment. Ukrainian forces have increasingly relied on Western missile defense systems to counter Russian airpower, leveling the playing field in the sky. This situation has led to a re-evaluation of Russia’s aerial strategy, with some military analysts suggesting that Russia may need to shift focus away from traditional air superiority tactics.
Additionally, the continued loss of Su-35s raises questions about the sustainability of Russia’s air operations. As these jets are expensive and complex to replace, their loss is not just a tactical setback but a significant strategic blow. Russia’s ability to replace these lost jets, while ramping up production of the newer Su-57 fighter jets, remains uncertain. The high cost and technical challenges associated with producing these advanced aircraft mean that even with increased production, it may take years to fully restore its fleet.
Why It Matters
Ukraine’s success in downing Su-35s is a clear indication of the effectiveness of its air defense strategy. This success has not only weakened Russia’s air capabilities but has also boosted Ukrainian morale. Moreover, it demonstrates the critical role of Western military aid in sustaining Ukraine’s defense efforts. As the conflict drags on, Ukraine’s continued success against these fighters could reshape the air dynamics of the war, potentially leading to a situation where Russia struggles to maintain air superiority.
The conflict in Ukraine has also highlighted the importance of adaptability in modern warfare. While the Su-35 was once seen as a symbol of Russian military prowess, its struggles in Ukraine underscore the need for constant evolution in military tactics and technology. This may lead to a shift in how air power is perceived and utilized in future conflicts, with a greater emphasis on integrated defense systems and next-generation technologies.
