The SU-34 is a development of the outstanding air superiority fighter SU-27 Flanker, which entered service with the Soviet forces towards the later Eighties. Major characteristics, superior to the Flanker, are: high manoeuvrability, an operational range of 4000 km and a high payload. This plane will gradually replace the SU-24 Fencer, presently in service. The SU-34 has a completely redesigned front section to accommodate a two-seat cockpit with complex electronics to precision navigate and operate the sophisticated air-to-ground missile system.