Ukrainian Su‑27 fighters execute strategic strikes on Russia
Ukrainian Su-27 fighters, equipped with American GBU-39 bombs, are carrying out precise attacks on strategic targets in Russia, reports Forbes.
The Ukrainian air force is using Su-27 fighters to conduct precision strikes on strategic targets in Russia, such as pontoon bridges and command points. These fighters are equipped with American GBU-39 bombs, which, thanks to GPS guidance, can strike from a distance of over 95 kilometres. Additionally, they conduct low-altitude flights, which allows them to avoid radar and increases the range of the bombs.
Unique footage: Ukrainian Su-27 attacks Russian positions
In rare footage, a Su-27 is seen dropping four bombs from one pylon, using a low-flight tactic that involves a sudden climb before releasing the bombs. This method allows the Su-27 to evade Russian anti-aircraft defence. Despite limited resources, the Ukrainian air force focuses on attacking costly targets, using about 10-12 bombs daily.
Low-altitude tactics
Ukrainian Su-27s armed with GBU-39 bombs employ low-altitude tactics to prevent radar detection during precise attacks on strategic targets in Russia. These maneuvers allow the aircraft to remain out of enemy range while effectively destroying key enemy objects. Thanks to GPS, the bombs can reach significant distances, further improving operational safety.
The Su-27 fighter aircraft, which appeared in the footage from the front, is also intended to gain air superiority. Its history dates back to the 1970s, with its first flight occurring in 1977. Production of the Su-27 continued from 1980 until 2019.
The Su-27 is powered by two Saturn Lyulka AL-31F engines, each generating more than 7,698 kilograms of thrust. With a wingspan of 15 metres, a length of 22 metres, and a height of 5.5 metres, this aircraft, weighing nearly 16,500 kilograms, accelerates to a speed of Mach 1.3, or approximately 1,300 km/h at low altitudes and as high as Mach 2.3 (2,400 km/h) at high altitudes (maximum of 19 kilometres).
The mentioned aircraft's range exceeds 3,700 kilometres, and its basic armament includes a standard GSz-31-1 30 mm aircraft gun. Additionally, various guided missiles or, as seen in the footage, GBU-39 bombs can be housed under the aircraft.
