Russia receives fourth batch of Su-34 strike aircraft this year

9 October, 2024 Su-34s transferred to the Russian Aerospace Forces as part of the fourth production batch of 2024. October 2024. Photo credits: Rostec

The Russian Aerospace Forces received the Su-34 strike aircraft of the fourth production batch in 2024. Rostec reported on this. The aircraft were inspected, refueled, and flew independently from the factory airfield of the JSC Novosibirsk Aircraft Production Association Plant named after VP Chkalov.

As part of the fourth production batch, the company handed over three additional Su-34 aircraft to the Russian Aerospace Forces, which, together with the previous delivery, indicates an increase in the number of aircraft in one batch. Currently, according to updated estimates as of early 2024, the Russian Air Force has received ten newly built Su-34 aircraft.

Considering this batch, the total number of transferred aircraft of this type may reach 13 units by the end of 2024, as previously planned. It should be noted that the fourth batch was delivered a month after the third batch was delivered, which is a rather fast pace for the JSC Novosibirsk Aircraft Production Association Plant named after VP Chkalov, which had not been able to achieve such an indicator before. Due to the large losses of Su-34 aircraft in the war against Ukraine, UAC CEO Yuriy Slyusar previously stated that the plant is seeking to increase production, as all UAC plants involved in fulfilling the state defense order are not slowing down production.

Prior to this transfer, the plant's capacity allowed for the transfer of two aircraft of this type once a quarter, which partially compensates for the loss of aircraft actively used by the enemy.

Su-34s transferred to the Russian Aerospace Forces as part of the fourth production batch of 2024. October 2024. Photo credits: Rostec

It should be noted that prior to delivery, the aircraft undergoes a full cycle of factory tests to confirm flight performance and system reliability.

In addition to increasing the production of Su-34 aircraft, the company also expects to accelerate the production of Su-35 and Su-57 fighters. Their production takes place at the Irkutsk Aviation Plant in Irkutsk, which is also part of UAC. At the beginning of 2024, factory representatives reported a high degree of workload at the plant.

According to them, the production of Su-35S and Su-57 fighter jets is scheduled until 2028, including the possibility of extending production contracts.