Comparing the Su-35 and F-35: A Deep Dive into Two of the World's Most Advanced Fighter Jets
When it comes to fifth-generation fighter jets, the Su-35 and F-35 are two of the most advanced aircraft in the world. While both planes are highly capable, they have distinct differences in design, capabilities, and purpose. In this article, we’ll explore the 5 key differences between the Su-35 and F-35, helping you understand the unique strengths and weaknesses of each aircraft.
1. Design and Aerodynamics
The Su-35, a Russian-made multirole fighter, is an evolution of the Su-27 Flanker. Its design emphasizes maneuverability, with a sleek, aerodynamic body and a distinctive twin-engine configuration. The Su-35’s airframe is constructed from advanced materials, including titanium and composite materials, which provide exceptional strength-to-weight ratios.
In contrast, the F-35, developed by Lockheed Martin, is a fifth-generation multirole fighter designed to meet the needs of the US military and its allies. The F-35’s airframe is made from advanced materials, including advanced composites and ceramics, which enable its unique stealth capabilities.
Comparison Table:
| Su-35 | F-35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 22.3 meters (73 ft 2 in) | 15.7 meters (51 ft 6 in) |
| Wingspan | 15.3 meters (50 ft 2 in) | 10.7 meters (35 ft 1 in) |
| Height | 6.3 meters (20 ft 8 in) | 4.6 meters (15 ft 1 in) |
| Empty weight | 19,000 kg (41,887 lb) | 13,600 kg (29,983 lb) |
2. Propulsion and Performance
The Su-35 is powered by two Saturn AL-41F1S turbofan engines, each producing 14,500 kgf (31,750 lbf) of thrust. This gives the Su-35 exceptional acceleration and climb rates, making it a formidable opponent in dogfighting scenarios.
The F-35, on the other hand, is powered by a single Pratt & Whitney F135 turbofan engine, producing 22,000 lbf (98 kN) of thrust. While the F-35’s engine is more powerful, the plane’s emphasis on stealth and low-observable design results in a lower thrust-to-weight ratio compared to the Su-35.
Performance Comparison:
| Su-35 | F-35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Top speed | Mach 2.25 (around 2,400 km/h or 1,500 mph) | Mach 1.6 (around 1,930 km/h or 1,200 mph) |
| Service ceiling | 18,000 meters (59,055 ft) | 15,240 meters (50,000 ft) |
| Range | 3,600 km (2,236 miles) | 2,220 km (1,379 miles) |
3. Radar and Electronic Warfare Capabilities
The Su-35 features the Phased Array Radar (PAR) system, which provides exceptional detection and tracking capabilities. The PAR system is highly resistant to electronic countermeasures and can engage multiple targets simultaneously.
The F-35 is equipped with the AN/APG-81 AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, which provides advanced detection and tracking capabilities. The AN/APG-81 also features advanced electronic warfare capabilities, including radar jamming and electronic support measures.
Radar Comparison:
| Su-35 | F-35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Radar type | Phased Array Radar (PAR) | AN/APG-81 AESA |
| Detection range | Up to 400 km (250 miles) | Up to 240 km (150 miles) |
| Tracking capability | Multiple targets simultaneously | Multiple targets simultaneously |
4. Stealth Capabilities
The F-35 is designed with stealth capabilities in mind, featuring a unique airframe shape and radar-absorbing materials to minimize its radar cross-section. This allows the F-35 to penetrate hostile airspace undetected.
The Su-35, while not designed with stealth in mind, still features some stealth-enhancing features, such as radar-absorbing coatings and a reduced radar cross-section. However, the Su-35’s larger size and more conventional design make it less stealthy than the F-35.
Stealth Comparison:
| Su-35 | F-35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Radar cross-section | Approximately 1-2 square meters | Approximately 0.001 square meters |
| Stealth capabilities | Limited | Advanced |
5. Operational Roles and Purpose
The Su-35 is designed as a multirole fighter, capable of performing air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Its emphasis on maneuverability and long-range capabilities make it an excellent choice for air superiority and escort missions.
The F-35, on the other hand, is designed as a fifth-generation multirole fighter, with a focus on stealth, advanced sensors, and network-centric capabilities. Its primary role is to provide air superiority and close air support, while also serving as a reconnaissance and electronic warfare platform.
Operational Roles Comparison:
| Su-35 | F-35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary role | Air superiority and multirole fighter | Air superiority, close air support, and reconnaissance |
| Secondary role | Escort and air-to-ground missions | Electronic warfare and reconnaissance |
💡 Note: The Su-35 and F-35 have different design philosophies and operational roles, reflecting the unique requirements and priorities of their respective countries.
In conclusion, while both the Su-35 and F-35 are advanced fighter jets, they have distinct differences in design, capabilities, and purpose. The Su-35 excels in terms of maneuverability, range, and radar capabilities, while the F-35 boasts advanced stealth capabilities, electronic warfare capabilities, and network-centric warfare capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between these two aircraft depends on the specific needs and priorities of the country or military organization operating them.
What is the main difference between the Su-35 and F-35?
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The main difference between the Su-35 and F-35 lies in their design philosophies and operational roles. The Su-35 is a multirole fighter with an emphasis on maneuverability and long-range capabilities, while the F-35 is a fifth-generation multirole fighter with a focus on stealth, advanced sensors, and network-centric capabilities.
Which aircraft has better radar capabilities?
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The Su-35 features the Phased Array Radar (PAR) system, which provides exceptional detection and tracking capabilities. The F-35, on the other hand, is equipped with the AN/APG-81 AESA radar, which also provides advanced detection and tracking capabilities.
Is the F-35 stealthier than the Su-35?
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Yes, the F-35 is designed with stealth capabilities in mind, featuring a unique airframe shape and radar-absorbing materials to minimize its radar cross-section. The Su-35, while not designed with stealth in mind, still features some stealth-enhancing features, but its larger size and more conventional design make it less stealthy than the F-35.
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