Sukhoi Su-30MKM

Sukhoi · Russia · first flew 2006 · fighter

The Sukhoi Su-30MKM is a highly customised export variant of the Su-30MKI twin-engine multirole fighter developed for the Royal Malaysian Air Force. It incorporates thrust-vectoring engines, canard foreplanes, and a mix of Russian, French, and South African avionics.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Mid-mounted, swept
E — Engines	2 × turbofan, fuselage-mounted
F — Fuselage	21.94 m fuselage
T — Tail	Twin fin

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Spot it by:

Twin-engine thrust-vectoring multirole fighter for Malaysia
Canards ahead of swept wing on twin-tail Su-30 variant
IRST sensor and refuelling probe on nose

A large twin-engine twin-tail fighter with prominent canard foreplanes, a long refuelling probe on the left nose, and IRST ball ahead of the windscreen; virtually identical externally to the Su-30MKI.

Specifications

The Sukhoi Su-30MKM has a length of 21.94 m (72 ft).
It has a wingspan of 14.7 m (48 ft).
Its maximum speed is 2120 km/h (1317 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Malaysia selected the Su-30MKM in 2003 after evaluating several Western and Russian options. The type entered RMAF service in 2007, featuring AL-31FP thrust-vectoring engines and a tailored avionics suite. The aircraft brought significantly enhanced air combat and strike capability to the RMAF.

Variants

The MKM is a customised variant of the Su-30MKI family; it differs from the MKI in avionics, radar, and sensor fit tailored to Malaysian requirements.

Where you'll see it

Operated exclusively by the Royal Malaysian Air Force; no UK connection.

Related aircraft

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