Russia's combat aircraft production stalls amid conflict
The production of combat aircraft in Russia has not increased, despite the ongoing conflict with Ukraine and the recorded losses that require replenishment. Ukrainian analyst Oleksandr Kovalenko points to stagnation (and in some cases a downward trend) in Russian production, which remains below the levels seen in 2014.
The production outlook for combat aircraft in Russia in 2025 also does not suggest that the trend will be reversed. Kovalenko emphasizes that current production levels are far from the peak periods. In 2014, Russia produced 101 combat aircraft, the highest number in recent years.
How many combat aircraft does Russia produce?
In 2024, the Russians produced only 28 combat aircraft. By the end of May 2025, the Russian air force had received just eight new aircraft. These included four Su-35 fighters delivered in two batches and two Su-34 bombers. Throughout 2024, 12 Su-34 bombers were delivered in six batches. Such a production pace does not allow for quick replenishment of losses.
The Su-34 is considered the backbone of Russian combat aviation and is also used in the war in Ukraine. It is a tactical bomber developed in the 1990s and powered by two AL-31F M1 engines. It can reach speeds of up to 1900 km/h. Its armament includes a GS-30-1 aircraft cannon with a 30 mm calibre and an optional arsenal of up to 8,200 kg carried on external pylons. These include KABs, which are glide bombs that significantly impact the Ukrainians.
Problems with the production of the Su-57
Kovalenko also notes that the production of the more modern Su-57 fighters is problematic for the Russians. In 2025, only two such aircraft were delivered to the army, which can carry, among other things, Ch-69 cruise missiles.
The expert emphasizes that despite the losses suffered by the Russian air forces in Ukraine, production has not risen to the levels of previous years. In 2025, Russia is capable of producing one Su-35 fighter every 1-2 months.
