Sukhoi Su-17M3 "Fitter"
Sukhoi · Soviet Union · first flew 1976 · fighter
The Sukhoi Su-17M3 was a significantly upgraded variant of the swing-wing attack aircraft family, introducing improved electronic warfare equipment, an expanded weapons suite, and the ability to carry the R-60 infrared air-to-air missile for self-defence.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 19.02 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Su-17 variant with additional spine avionics hump
- Variable-sweep attack aircraft with R-60 dogfight missile capability
- Improved EW and weapon delivery over Su-17M2
Similar to the Su-17M2 but distinguished by the prominent dorsal avionics spine running aft from the cockpit, a feature absent from earlier variants.
Specifications
- The Sukhoi Su-17M3 has a length of 19.02 m (62 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 13.68 m (45 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 1860 km/h (1156 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First flown in 1976, the Su-17M3 incorporated lessons learned from operational use of the earlier variants and added a prominent dorsal spine running from the cockpit to the fin, housing additional avionics and EW equipment.
Variants
The M3 was exported as the Su-20M to some customers; the subsequent Su-17M4 added a digital navigation system and was the final production variant.
Where you'll see it
The Su-17M3 served with Soviet Frontal Aviation and was widely exported; it saw combat in Afghanistan and in the hands of various Middle Eastern operators.
Related aircraft
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