Russian combat aircraft production stalls amid conflict strains
The production of combat aircraft in Russia has not increased, despite the ongoing conflict with Ukraine and recorded losses necessitating replenishment. Ukrainian analyst Oleksandr Kovalenko highlights stagnation (and in some cases a decrease) in Russian production, which remains below the levels of 2014.
The outlook for Russian combat aircraft production in 2025 also does not suggest an improvement. Kovalenko stresses that current levels are far from previous highs. In 2014, Russia produced 101 combat aircraft, which was the highest figure 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. Among them were 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 rate does not allow for the swift replenishment of losses.
The Su-34 is regarded as the backbone of Russian combat aviation and is also used during the war in Ukraine. It is a tactical bomber developed in the 1990s, powered by two AL-31F M1 engines. It can reach speeds of up to 1,900 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 affect 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 emphasises that despite the losses suffered by the Russian air forces in Ukraine, production has not risen to previous levels. In 2025, Russia is capable of producing one Su-35 fighter every 1 to 2 months.
