Su-35 or Su-34: Which Fighter Jet Better Serves Iran’s Defense Needs?

The Su-34: A Heavy Strike Platform

The Su-34, known by its NATO designation “Fullback,” is one of Russia’s most advanced strike aircraft, developed from the Su-27 platform and designed primarily for long-range ground and maritime attack missions.

According to Rokna, the Su-34 is powered by two AL-31F-M1 turbofan engines, enabling a top speed of Mach 1.8 (around 2,200 km/h) and a combat range of approximately 4,000 km, which can be extended to 7,000 km with aerial refueling. The aircraft’s empty weight is about 22,500 kg, with a maximum takeoff weight of 45,100 kg. Measuring 23.3 meters in length, 14.7 meters in wingspan, and 6.1 meters in height, it is a robust and sizable platform.

The Su-34 can carry up to 12,000 kg of diverse weaponry, including Kh-59MK anti-ship cruise missiles (285 km range), KAB-500L laser-guided bombs, Kh-31P anti-radiation missiles, and R-73 short-range air-to-air missiles for self-defense. It is also equipped with a 30mm GSh-301 cannon capable of firing 1,500 rounds per minute.

Its Leninets B-004 radar can detect air and ground targets at ranges between 200 and 250 km, while the Platan electro-optical targeting system allows for precision strikes. The twin-seat cockpit design lets the pilot and weapons officer divide navigation and targeting duties — a key advantage for complex or long-duration missions. In addition, the Khibiny electronic warfare suite enhances survivability by jamming enemy radar and disrupting guided missile systems.

The Su-35: A True Multirole Air Superiority Fighter

By contrast, the Su-35 — NATO reporting name “Flanker-E” — is a single-seat, multirole fighter optimized for air superiority and precision strike missions. It features AL-41F1S engines with thrust-vectoring nozzles, granting it exceptional agility and a top speed of Mach 2.25 (around 2,700 km/h). The Su-35 has a combat radius of 3,600 km, extendable through aerial refueling, and an empty weight of 16,500 kg with a maximum takeoff weight of 34,500 kg — making it lighter and more maneuverable than the Su-34.

Equipped with the powerful Irbis-E radar, the Su-35 can detect aerial targets at ranges up to 400 km. It can carry up to 8,000 kg of ordnance, including long-range R-77 air-to-air missiles, Kh-35 anti-ship missiles, and precision-guided bombs. Its high maneuverability, aided by thrust-vectoring engines, makes it one of the most capable dogfighters in the world.

Iran’s Air Force Requirements

Iran’s air force is currently seeking to replace its aging fleet of F-4s, F-5s, F-14s, and MiG-29s. Given the country’s geopolitical environment and the aerial and missile threats it faces from both regional neighbors and extra-regional powers, the need for an advanced air superiority fighter is pressing.

The Su-35, with its long-range radar, superior maneuverability, and capability for beyond-visual-range combat, appears better suited to replace legacy aircraft like the F-14 Tomcat — still the backbone of Iran’s air defense. Reports indicate that Iran has signed a contract for 48 Su-35s, with deliveries reportedly underway, underscoring Tehran’s priority to strengthen its defensive capabilities.

Final Comparison and Outlook

While the Su-34 excels in long-range strike missions against ground and naval targets — such as enemy infrastructure or warships — Iran’s current strategic needs are more closely aligned with air defense and air superiority missions. The Su-34’s heavy payload and advanced strike capabilities could serve as a complement to Iran’s fleet in the future, but its higher maintenance costs and logistical complexity pose challenges under ongoing sanctions and economic constraints.

The Su-35, on the other hand, offers a more balanced and cost-effective option with multirole flexibility, lower operating expenses, and stronger compatibility with Iran’s defensive priorities. Considering recent procurement reports and strategic trends, the Su-35 stands out as the more practical and realistic choice for Iran’s air force modernization.