Sukhoi Su-22
Sukhoi · Soviet Union · first flew 1966 · fighter
A Soviet variable-geometry fighter-bomber, the export designation of the Su-17 family and a swing-wing development of the fixed-wing Su-7.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| 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:
- Partial variable-sweep wing where only the outer panels pivot
- Pronounced dorsal spine running from the canopy to a tall fin
- Cylindrical nose with a fixed conical shock cone in a round intake
Only the outer wing panels swing, unlike full swing-wings. Watch for the deep dorsal spine and the conical shock cone in the round nose intake.
Specifications
- The Sukhoi Su-22 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 pilot.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The S-22I demonstrator first flew in 1966, making the Su-17 the first Soviet variable-sweep aircraft in service. The Su-22 export jets, powered by the Lyulka AL-21F-3, followed through the 1970s and 1980s with around 2,800 of the family built.
Variants
The definitive single-seat Su-22M4 (Fitter-K) and the two-seat Su-22UM trainer (Fitter-G) were widely exported across the Warsaw Pact and to client states.
Where you'll see it
Used by many Soviet client states and seen in combat from the Iran-Iraq War to Syria. Not seen in UK skies.
Related aircraft
- Sukhoi T-58VD
- Sukhoi Su-24
- Sukhoi Su-7U
- Sukhoi Su-7BM
- Atlas Impala Mk I
- Chengdu J-7
- Dassault Mirage F1
- Dassault Mirage IIIS
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