Sukhoi Su-20 "Fitter"
Sukhoi · Soviet Union · first flew 1972 · fighter
The Sukhoi Su-20 is the export derivative of the Su-17 Fitter variable-geometry ground-attack fighter, fitted with downgraded avionics for sale to Warsaw Pact allies and Middle Eastern customers.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 18.75 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Export version of Su-17 Fitter with reduced avionics
- Variable-geometry ('swing') outer wing panels
- Large dorsal spine running from cockpit to tail
Identified by the variable-geometry outer wing panels swept back in high-speed flight, the distinctive dorsal avionics spine, the ogival nose inlet, and a single engine exhaust; virtually identical to the Su-17 externally.
Specifications
- The Sukhoi Su-20 has a length of 18.75 m (62 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 13.8 m (45 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 2230 km/h (1386 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First delivered in 1972, the Su-20 was essentially a Su-17M with simplified Soviet avionics removed and less capable systems installed for export. Egypt and Poland were the primary operators, and the type saw combat use in the 1973 Yom Kippur War with Egypt.
Variants
The Su-20 sits between the early Su-17 and the more capable Su-22 export variant; all share the same variable-geometry wing derived from the fixed-wing Su-7.
Where you'll see it
Operated by Egypt, Poland, and Syria; saw combat in the 1973 Arab-Israeli War. Egypt subsequently retired its fleet after the Camp David Accords shifted procurement toward Western types.
Related aircraft
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