The Su-33 (Su-27K Flanker-D) is a carrier-based variant in the Su-27 family. Developed with naval operations in mind, the Su-33 utilizes a strengthened undercarriage, folding wing surfaces and an arresting hook. Other changes include enlarged control surfaces, an installed in-flight refueling probe, canards, and a shortened aft radar sting.
Description[]
Developer's reveal of the Su-33
The Su-27 is a twin-engine supermanoeuverable fighter aircraft amongst the forefront of current generation military aviation. With phenomenal agility only surpassed by advanced fifth-generation stealth aircraft, a heavy weapons payload, and sophisticated, cutting-edge electronics, the Flanker family is amongst one of the only aircraft lines in the world capable of performing a Pugachev's Cobra, and boasts post-stall manoeuvering abilities. It has seen a number of developments into multirole strike fighters, and programs to further enhance its air-to-air abilities. The Su-33 is a carrier-based advanced multirole strike fighter, with strengthened landing gear and arrestor hooks to facilitate hard carrier landings. While some observers may think its canards are intended to increase aerial performance, they actually are for controlling airflow direction into the air intakes to provide engines with a steady supply of air through out all directions.
Armament[]
Standard weapons
- GSh-30-1 cannon with 800 rounds
- R-73E (AA-11 Archer) with 80 units
Special weapons
- KH-31A (AS-17 Krypton) with 18 units
- KH-29T (AS-14 Kedge) with 20 units
- R-60M (AA-8 Aphid) with 20 units