Sukhoi Su-27: Russia’s Air Superiority and Multi-role Fighter, 1977 to the Present

This detailed, illustrated look at the Russian Sukhoi Su-27 fighter aircraft features complete discussions of its design, construction, and operational use, as well as all technical systems and weapons. Developed in the 1970s as a match for the American F-15 Eagle, the aircraft remains one of the most important fighters in the current Russian arsenal, and has formed the basis for many variants including the Su-30, Su-34, and Su-35. Though larger than Russia’s famed MiG-29, it is extremely maneuverable and considerably more powerful. The Su-27 can also fly at extremely high angles of attack - an ability it is fond of demonstrating at airshows, along with its legendary Cobra maneuver. The Su-27 remains in production, and nearly a dozen countries - including China, India, and Vietnam - currently operate this high-performance aircraft. The book is superbly illustrated with more than 210 colour images, and includes more than thirty colour aircraft profiles displaying colour schemes. AUTHOR: Andy Groning is a trained tool mechanic and worked for twelve years as a professional soldier in the Bundeswehr, including six years as an engine mechanic on the MiG-29; he was present when the aircraft was retired. His primary interest is Soviet Russian military aviation. 210 colour photographs and profiles