Army aviation of the Russian armed forces. Russian Air Force Aviation Troops




Species military equipment and weapons of the Air Force: Long-range aviation Long-range aviation Front-line aviation Front-line aviation Army aviation Army aviation Military transport aviation Military transport aviation Special aviation Special aviation Anti-aircraft rocket troops Anti-aircraft missile troops Radio technical troops Radio technical troops


Let's look at them in more detail: Long-Range Aviation Long-Range Aviation is the main strike weapon of the Air Force, designed to destroy enemy troop groups, aviation, naval forces and destroy its important military, military-industrial, energy facilities, communications centers, mainly in strategic and operational depth. It can also be used for aerial reconnaissance and mining from the air. The main types of strategic and long-range bombers are Tu-160, Tu-95MS, Tu-22M3. The main types of strategic and long-range bombers are Tu-160, Tu-95MS, Tu-22M3.


Front-line aviation Front-line aviation is the main strike force of the Air Force, solves problems in combined arms, joint and independent operations, and is designed to destroy enemy troops and targets in operational depth in the air, on land and at sea. Can be used for aerial reconnaissance and mining from the air. The main types are Su-24M, Su-25, Su-27, MiG-31, MiG-29, Su-24MR.


Army Aviation Army Aviation is designed to provide air support to the Ground Forces by destroying enemy ground, mainly small, armored mobile targets primarily on cutting edge and in tactical depth, as well as to solve the problems of comprehensive support for combined arms combat and increasing the mobility of troops. At the same time, army aviation units perform fire, airborne transport, reconnaissance and special combat missions.


Military transport aviation Military transport aviation is the means of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and ensures the air transportation of its troops, military equipment and cargo, as well as the airborne landings. The main types include aircraft of various modifications: An-124, Il-76, An-26, An-22, An-12. The main types include aircraft of various modifications: An-124, Il-76, An-26, An-22, An-12.


Special aviation Special aviation is designed to solve special problems: long-range radar detection and control, electronic warfare, reconnaissance and target designation as part of reconnaissance and strike complexes, providing control and communications, refueling aircraft in the air, conducting radiation, chemical and engineering reconnaissance, evacuating the wounded and sick, search and rescue flight crews.


Anti-aircraft missile forces Anti-aircraft missile forces (AAMS) are designed to protect important administrative-political industrial-economic and military installations and other objects of the country from air attack. The air defense missile systems are armed with unique, superior to the best foreign analogues anti-aircraft missile systems (ZRS) S-300PM, which have a high capability of defeating all modern means air attack, in the entire range of altitudes and flight speeds, in conditions of radio interference. The air defense missile system is armed with unique, superior to the best foreign analogues, S-300PM anti-aircraft missile systems (AAMS), which have high capabilities to destroy all modern air attack weapons, in the entire range of altitudes and flight speeds, in conditions of radio interference.


Radio-technical troops Radio-technical troops (RTV) are designed to conduct radar reconnaissance of enemy air, provide information for radar support of anti-aircraft missile forces and aviation units, as well as to control the use of the country's airspace. They are equipped various types modern radar stations and complexes, allowing at any time of the year and day, in conditions of enemy electronic countermeasures, to detect air attack weapons at long ranges and in a wide range of altitudes, to determine their exact coordinates and nationality. They are equipped with various types of modern radar stations and complexes, which make it possible at any time of the year and day, in conditions of enemy electronic countermeasures, to detect air attack weapons at long ranges and in a wide range of altitudes, to determine their exact coordinates and nationality. The basics include: The basics include: radar “Protivnik-G”, radar “Sky-U”, “Gamma-DE”, “Gamma-S1”, “Casta-2” radar “Protivnik-G”, radar “Sky- U", "Gamma - DE", "Gamma-S1", "Casta-2"

The Air Force is rightfully considered the most mobile and operational branch of our army. The Air Force includes aviation, anti-aircraft missile and radar troops, and special forces.

Tasks of the Russian Air Force

The range of tasks of the Air Force includes:

  1. Detection of the onset of an attack at distant stages through air patrols and radar reconnaissance.
  2. Notification of the start of an attack to all headquarters of the RF Armed Forces, all types and branches of troops in all military districts of Russia, including civil defense headquarters.
  3. Repelling an attack in the air, establishing complete control over the airspace.
  4. Protection of military and civilian objects from attack from the air and from space, as well as from aerial reconnaissance.
  5. Air support for the actions of the Russian Ground and Naval Forces.
  6. Defeat military, rear and other enemy targets.
  7. Defeat air, land, ground and sea groups and formations of the enemy, his air and sea landings.
  8. Transportation of personnel, weapons and military equipment, landing of troops.
  9. Conducting all types of aerial reconnaissance, radar reconnaissance, electronic warfare.
  10. Control of land, sea and air space in the border zone.

Structure of the Russian Air Force

The structure of the Russian Air Force has a complex multi-level system. By branch and strength of troops, the Air Force is divided into:

  • aviation;
  • anti-aircraft missile forces;
  • radio technical troops;
  • special troops.

Aviation, in turn, is divided into:

  • long-range and strategic;
  • frontline;
  • army;
  • fighter;
  • military transport;
  • special

Long-range aviation is designed to launch missile and bomb strikes deep behind enemy lines at a considerable distance from the borders of the Russian Federation. Strategic aviation, in addition, is armed with nuclear missiles and bombs. Its aircraft are capable of covering significant distances at supersonic speeds and at high altitudes, while carrying a significant bomb load.

Fighter aviation has the task of protecting the most important directions and important objects from air attack and represents the main maneuverable force of air defense. The main requirement for fighter aircraft is high maneuverability, speed, and the ability to effectively conduct dogfight and intercept various air targets (interceptor fighters).

Front-line aviation includes attack and bomber vehicles. The first ones are intended to support ground forces and naval groups, to destroy ground targets at the forefront of combat operations, to combat enemy aircraft. Front-line bombers, in contrast to long-range and strategic bombers, are intended to destroy ground targets and troop groups at close and medium distances from home airfields.

Army aviation in the Russian Air Force is represented by helicopters for various purposes. It, first of all, carries out close interaction with land forces army troops, solving a wide variety of combat and transport missions.

Special aviation is called upon to solve various highly specialized tasks: conduct aerial reconnaissance, electronic warfare, detect ground and air targets at long distances, refuel other aircraft in the air, provide command and communications.

Special troops include:

  • reconnaissance;
  • engineering;
  • aeronautics;
  • meteorological;
  • topogeodetic troops;
  • electronic warfare forces;
  • RCBZ forces;
  • search and rescue forces;
  • parts of radio-electronic support and automated control systems;
  • parts of logistics;
  • rear units.

In addition, the Russian Air Force associations are divided according to their organizational structure:

  • Special Operations Command;
  • special forces air forces;
  • air armies military transport aviation;
  • Air Force and Air Defense armies (4th, 6th, 11th, 14th and 45th);
  • units of the central subordination of the Air Force;
  • foreign air bases.

The current state and composition of the Russian Air Force

The active process of degradation of the Air Force, which took place in the 90s, led to a critical state of this type of troops. The number of personnel and the level of their training fell sharply.

According to many media reports, at that time Russia could count a little more than a dozen highly trained fighter and attack aircraft pilots with combat experience. Most of the pilots had almost no experience flying airplanes.

The vast majority of aircraft fleet equipment required overhaul, airfields and ground military facilities did not stand up to criticism.

The process of loss of combat capability of the Air Force after 2000 was completely stopped. Since 2009, the process of total modernization and overhaul of equipment began. Thus, plans for the purchase of new military equipment were brought to the level of Soviet times, and the development of promising weapons began again.

As of 2018, many authoritative publications, including foreign ones, in terms of size and level of equipment, place the Air Force of our country in second place after the US Air Force. However, they note that the growth in the number and equipment of the Chinese Air Force is ahead of the Russian Air Force and in the very near future the Chinese Air Force may become equal to ours.

During the military operation from Syria, the Air Force was not only able to carry out full-fledged combat tests new weapons and air defense systems, but also, by rotating the number of personnel, to carry out “firing” in combat conditions for the majority of fighter and attack aircraft pilots. 80-90% of pilots now have combat experience.

Military equipment

Fighter aviation in the troops is represented by multi-role fighters SU-30 and SU-35 of various modifications, front-line fighters MIG-29 and SU-27, and fighter-interceptor MIG-31.

Front-line aviation is dominated by the SU-24 bomber, SU-25 attack aircraft and SU-34 fighter-bomber.

Far and strategic aviation armed with supersonic strategic missile-carrying bombers TU-22M and TU-160. There are also a number of outdated TU-95 turboprops that are being modernized to the modern level.

Transport aviation includes transport aircraft AN-12, AN-22, AN-26, AN-72, AN-124, IL-76 and passenger AN-140, AN-148, IL-18, IL-62, TU -134, TU-154 and the joint Czechoslovak-Russian development of Let L-410 Turbolet.

Special aviation includes AWACS aircraft, air command posts, reconnaissance aircraft, tanker aircraft, electronic warfare and reconnaissance aircraft, and relay aircraft.

Helicopter fleet presented attack helicopters KA-50, KA-52 and MI-28, transport and combat MI-24 and MI-25, multi-purpose Ansat-U, KA-226 and MI-8, as well as a heavy transport helicopter MI-26.

In the future, the air force will have: the MIG-35 front-line fighter, the PAK-FA fifth-generation fighter, the SU-57 multi-role fighter, the new A-100 type AWACS aircraft, the PAK-DA multi-role strategic missile-carrying bomber, the MI-38 and multi-role helicopters. PLV, SBV attack helicopter.

Among the air defense systems in service with the Air Force are the world famous anti-aircraft missile systems long-range S-300 and S-400, short-range missile and gun systems "Pantsir S-1" and "Pantsir S-2". In the future, the appearance of a complex like the S-500 is expected.

Modern Air Force Russian Federation traditionally the most mobile and maneuverable branch of the Armed Forces. The equipment and other means in service with the Air Force are intended, first of all, to repel aggression in the aerospace sphere and protect the administrative, industrial and economic centers of the country, troop groups and important facilities from enemy attacks; to support the actions of the Ground Forces and the Navy; delivering strikes against enemy groups in the sky, on land and at sea, as well as against its administrative, political and military-economic centers.

The existing Air Force in its organizational structure dates back to 2008, when the country began to form a new look for the Russian Armed Forces. Then the Air Force and Air Defense commands were formed, subordinate to the newly created operational-strategic commands: Western, Southern, Central and Eastern. The Air Force Main Command was assigned the tasks of planning and organizing combat training, the long-term development of the Air Force, as well as the training of command and control personnel. In 2009–2010, a transition was made to a two-level air force command system, as a result of which the number of formations was reduced from 8 to 6, and air defense formations were reorganized into 11 aerospace defense brigades. Air regiments were consolidated into air bases total number about 70, including 25 tactical (front-line) air bases, of which 14 are purely fighter.

In 2014, the reform of the Air Force structure continued: air defense forces and assets were concentrated in air defense divisions, and the formation of air divisions and regiments began in aviation. An Air Force and Air Defense Army is being created as part of the United Strategic Command North.

The most fundamental transformation is expected in 2015: the creation of a new type - the Aerospace Forces based on the integration of forces and assets of the Air Force (aviation and air defense) and the Aerospace Defense Forces ( space force, air defense and missile defense).

Simultaneously with the reorganization, an active renewal of the aviation fleet is taking place. Airplanes and helicopters of previous generations began to be replaced by their new modifications, as well as promising aircraft with wider combat capabilities and flight performance. Current development work on promising aircraft systems was continued and new development work began. The active development of unmanned aircraft has begun.

The modern air fleet of the Russian Air Force is second in size only to the US Air Force.  True, its exact quantitative composition has not been officially published, but quite adequate calculations can be made based on open sources. As for updating the aircraft fleet, according to the representative of the press service and information department of the Russian Ministry of Defense for VSVI.Klimov, the Russian Air Force in 2015 alone, in accordance with the state defense order, will receive more than 150 new aircraft and helicopters. These include newest aircraft Su‑30 SM, Su‑30 M2, MiG‑29 SMT, Su‑34, Su‑35 S, Yak‑130, Il‑76 MD‑90 A, as well as helicopters Ka‑52, Mi‑28 N, Mi‑ 8 AMTSH/MTV-5-1, Mi-8 MTPR, Mi-35 M, Mi-26, Ka-226 and Ansat-U. It is also known from the words of the former commander-in-chief of the Russian Air Force, Colonel General A. Zelin, that as of November 2010, the total number of Air Force personnel was about 170 thousand people (including 40 thousand officers).

All aviation of the Russian Air Force as a branch of the military is divided into:

  • Long-range (strategic) aviation,
  • Operational-tactical (front-line) aviation,
  • Military transport aviation,
  • Army aviation.

In addition, the Air Force includes such types of troops as anti-aircraft missile troops, radio technical troops, special troops, as well as units and logistics institutions (all of them in this material will not be considered).

In turn, aviation by type is divided into:

  • bomber aircraft,
  • attack aircraft,
  • fighter aircraft,
  • reconnaissance aircraft,
  • transport aviation,
  • special aviation.

Next, all types of aircraft in the Air Force of the Russian Federation, as well as promising aircraft, are considered. The first part of the article covers long-range (strategic) and operational-tactical (front-line) aviation, the second part covers military transport, reconnaissance, special and army aviation.

Long-range (strategic) aviation

Long-range aviation is a means of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces and is intended to solve strategic, operational-strategic and operational tasks in theaters of military operations (strategic directions). Long-range aviation is also a component of the triad of strategic nuclear forces.

Main tasks performed in peacetime- deterrence (including nuclear) probable opponents; in the event of the outbreak of war - the maximum reduction in the military-economic potential of the enemy by hitting his important military targets and disrupting state and military control.

The main promising areas for the development of long-range aviation are maintaining and increasing operational capabilities to carry out assigned tasks within the strategic forces deterrence and general purpose forces through the modernization of aircraft with extension of their service life, the purchase of new aircraft (Tu-160 M), as well as the creation of a promising PAK-DA long-range aviation complex.

The main armament of long-range aircraft is guided missiles, both nuclear and conventional:

As well as free-falling bombs of various calibers, including nuclear ones, disposable cluster bombs, and sea mines.

In the future, it is planned to introduce high-precision cruise missiles of the new generation X-555 and X-101 with significantly increased range and accuracy into the armament of long-range aviation aircraft.

The basis of the modern aircraft fleet of long-range aviation of the Russian Air Force are missile-carrying bombers:

  • strategic missile carriers Tu-160–16 units. By 2020, it is possible to supply about 50 modernized Tu-160 M2 aircraft.
  • strategic missile carriers Tu-95 MS - 38 units, and about 60 more in storage. Since 2013, these aircraft have been modernized to the level of the Tu-95 MSM in order to extend their service life.
  • long-range missile carrier-bomber Tu-22 M3 - about 40 units, and another 109 in reserve. Since 2012, 30 aircraft have been modernized to the Tu-22 M3 M level.

Long-range aviation also includes Il-78 refueling aircraft and Tu-22MR reconnaissance aircraft.

Tu-160

Work on a new multi-mode strategic intercontinental bomber began in the USSR in 1967. Having tried a variety of layout options, the designers eventually came to the design of an integral low-wing aircraft with a variable-sweep wing with four engines installed in pairs in engine nacelles under the fuselage.

In 1984, the Tu-160 was put into serial production at the Kazan Aviation Plant. At the time of the collapse of the USSR, 35 aircraft were produced (of which 8 prototypes); by 1994, KAPO transferred six more Tu-160 bombers to the Russian Air Force, which were stationed near Engels in Saratov region. In 2009, 3 new aircraft were built and put into service, by 2015 their number is 16 units.

In 2002, the Ministry of Defense entered into an agreement with KAPO for the modernization of the Tu-160 with the goal of gradually repairing and modernizing all bombers of this type in service. According to the latest data, by 2020, 10 aircraft of the Tu-160 M modification will be delivered to the Russian Air Force. The modernized aircraft will receive a space communications system, improved sighting guidance systems and electronics, and will be able to use promising and modernized (X-55 SM) cruise missiles and conventional bomb weapons. In view of the need to replenish the long-range aviation fleet, in April 2015, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu instructed to consider the issue of resuming production of the Tu-160 M. In May of the same year, Supreme Commander-in-Chief V.V. Putin officially ordered the resumption of production of the improved Tu-160 M2.

Main characteristics of Tu-160

4 people

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

4 × NK-32 turbofan engines

Maximum thrust

4 × 18,000 kgf

Afterburner thrust

4 × 25,000 kgf

2230 km/h (M=1.87)

Cruising speed

917 km/h (M=0.77)

Maximum range without refueling

Range with combat load

Combat radius

Flight duration

Service ceiling

about 22000 m

Rate of climb

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Strategic cruise missiles X‑55 SM/X‑101

Tactical aeroballistic missiles Kh‑15 S

Freefall aerial bombs caliber up to 4000 kg, cluster bombs, mines.

Tu‑95MS

The creation of the aircraft was started by the design bureau headed by Andrei Tupolev back in the 1950s. At the end of 1951, the developed project was approved, and then the model built by that time was approved and approved. Construction of the first two aircraft began at Moscow Aviation Plant No. 156, and already in the fall of 1952 prototype made his first flight.

In 1956, aircraft, officially designated Tu-95, began to arrive in long-range aviation units. Subsequently, various modifications were developed, including carriers of anti-ship missiles.

At the end of the 1970s, a completely new modification of the bomber was created, designated Tu-95 MS.  The new aircraft was put into mass production at the Kuibyshev Aviation Plant in 1981, which continued until 1992 (about 100 aircraft were produced).

Now the 37th Air Force has been formed as part of the Russian Air Force Air Force aviation strategic purpose, consisting of two divisions, which includes two regiments on the Tu‑95 MS‑16 (Amur and Saratov regions) - a total of 38 vehicles. About 60 more units are in storage.

Due to the obsolescence of equipment, in 2013 the modernization of aircraft in service to the level of Tu-95 MSM began, the service life of which will last until 2025. They will be equipped with new electronics, a sighting and navigation system, a satellite navigation system, and will be able to carry new X-101 strategic cruise missiles.

Main characteristics of Tu-95MS

7 people

Wingspan:

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

4 × NK‑12 MP theater

Power

4 × 15,000 l.  With.

Maximum speed at altitude

Cruising speed

about 700 km/h

Maximum range

Practical range

Combat radius

Service ceiling

about 11000 m

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Built-in

Strategic cruise missiles X‑55 SM/X‑101–6 or 16

Free-falling aerial bombs up to 9000 kg caliber,

cluster bombs, mines.

Tu-22M3

The Tu-22 M3 long-range supersonic missile carrier-bomber with variable wing geometry is designed to conduct combat operations in the operational zones of land and sea theaters of military operations day and night in simple and adverse weather conditions. It is capable of striking Kh‑22 cruise missiles against sea targets, Kh‑15 supersonic aeroballistic missiles against ground targets, and also perform targeted bombing. In the west it was called "Backfire".

In total, the Kazan Aviation Production Association built 268 Tu-22 M3 bombers until 1993.

Currently, about 40 Tu-22 M3 units are in service, and another 109 are in reserve. By 2020, it is planned to upgrade about 30 vehicles at KAPO to the level of the Tu-22 M3 M (the modification was put into service in 2014). They will be equipped with new electronics, expand the range of weapons by introducing the latest high-precision ammunition, and extend their service life to 40 years.

Main characteristics of Tu-22M3

4 people

Wingspan:

At minimum sweep angle

At maximum sweep angle

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × NK-25 turbofan engines

Maximum thrust

2 × 14,500 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 25,000 kgf

Maximum speed at altitude

Cruising speed

Flight range

Combat radius with a load of 12 t

1500…2400 km

Service ceiling

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Built-in

23 mm defensive installation with GSh-23 cannons

X-22 anti-ship cruise missiles

Tactical aeroballistic missiles X‑15 S.

Promising developments

PAK YES

In 2008, funding for R&D was opened in Russia to create a promising long-range aviation complex, the PAK DA.  The program envisages the development of a fifth-generation long-range bomber to replace the aircraft in service with the Russian Air Force. The fact that the Russian Air Force formulated tactical and technical requirements for the PAK DA program and began preparations for the participation of design bureaus in the development competition was announced back in 2007. According to the General Director of Tupolev OJSC I. Shevchuk, the contract under the PAK DA program was won by Tupolev Design Bureau. In 2011, it was reported that a preliminary design of an integrated avionics complex for a promising complex had been developed, and the long-range aviation command of the Russian Air Force issued a tactical and technical specification for the creation of a promising bomber. Plans were announced to build 100 vehicles, which are expected to be put into service by 2027.

The weapons most likely to be used will be advanced hypersonic missiles, long-range cruise missiles of the X-101 type, and high-precision missiles short range and adjustable bombs, as well as free-falling bombs. It was stated that some of the missile samples had already been developed by the Tactical Missiles Corporation. Perhaps the aircraft will also be used as an air carrier of an operational-strategic reconnaissance and strike complex. It is possible that for self-defense, in addition to the electronic warfare system, the bomber will be armed with air-to-air missiles.

Operational-tactical (front-line) aviation

Operational-tactical (front-line) aviation is designed to solve operational, operational-tactical and tactical tasks in operations (combat actions) of groupings of troops (forces) in theaters of military operations (strategic directions).

Bomber aviation, which is part of front-line aviation, is the main strike weapon of the Air Force primarily in operational and operational-tactical depth.

Attack aircraft are intended primarily for air support of troops, destruction of manpower and objects primarily at the front line, in the tactical and immediate operational depth of the enemy. In addition, it can also fight enemy aircraft in the air.

The main promising areas for the development of bombers and attack aircraft of operational-tactical aviation are maintaining and increasing capabilities in the framework of solving operational, operational-tactical and tactical tasks during combat operations in the theater of operations through the supply of new ones (Su‑34) and modernization of existing ones (Su‑25 SM ) aircraft.

Bombers and attack aircraft of front-line aviation are armed with air-to-surface and air-to-air missiles and unguided missiles different types, aircraft bombs, including adjustable bombs, cluster bombs, aircraft guns.

Fighter aviation is represented by multi-role and front-line fighters, as well as fighter-interceptors. Its purpose is to destroy aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles and enemy unmanned aerial vehicles in the air, as well as ground and sea targets.

The task of fighter aircraft of air defense is to cover the most important directions and individual objects from enemy air attacks by destroying their aircraft at maximum ranges with the help of interceptors. Air defense aviation also includes combat helicopters, special and transport aircraft and helicopters.

The main promising areas for the development of fighter aviation are maintaining and increasing the capabilities to carry out assigned tasks through the modernization of existing aircraft, the purchase of new aircraft (Su-30, Su-35), as well as the creation of a promising PAK-FA aviation complex, which has been tested since 2010 year and, possibly, a promising long-range interceptor.

The main weapons of fighter aircraft are air-to-air and air-to-surface guided missiles of various ranges, as well as free-falling and adjustable bombs, unguided missiles, cluster bombs, and aircraft cannons. Development of advanced missile weapons is underway.

The modern aircraft fleet of attack and front-line bomber aviation includes the following types of aircraft:

  • Su‑25–200 attack aircraft, including Su‑25UB, about 100 more are in storage. Despite the fact that these aircraft were put into service in the USSR, their combat potential, taking into account modernization, remains quite high. By 2020, it is planned to upgrade about 80 attack aircraft to the Su-25 SM level.
  • front-line bombers Su‑24 M - 21 units. These Soviet-made aircraft are already outdated and are actively being decommissioned. In 2020, it is planned to dispose of all Su‑24 M in service.
  • fighter-bombers Su‑34–69 units. The latest multi-role aircraft that replace obsolete Su-24 M bombers in units. The total number of Su-34 ordered is 124 units, which will enter service in the near future.

Su-25

The Su-25 is an armored subsonic attack aircraft designed to provide close support to ground forces over the battlefield. It is capable of destroying point and area targets on the ground day and night under any weather conditions. We can say that this is the best aircraft of its class in the world, tested in real combat operations. Among the troops, the Su-25 received the unofficial nickname “Rook”, in the west - the designation “Frogfoot”.

Serial production was carried out at aircraft factories in Tbilisi and Ulan-Ude (over the entire period, 1,320 aircraft of all modifications were produced, including for export).

The vehicles were produced in various modifications, including the combat training Su‑25UB and the deck-based Su‑25UTD for the Navy. Currently, the Russian Air Force has about 200 Su-25 aircraft of various modifications, which are in service with 6 combat and several training air regiments. About 100 more old cars are in storage.

In 2009, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced the resumption of purchases of Su-25 attack aircraft for the Air Force.  At the same time, a program was adopted to modernize 80 vehicles to the level of the Su-25 SM. They are equipped with the latest electronics, including sighting system, multifunctional indicators, new electronic warfare equipment, suspended radar "Spear". The new Su-25UBM aircraft, which will have similar equipment to the Su-25 SM, has been adopted as a combat training aircraft.

Main characteristics of the Su-25

1 person

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × R‑95Sh turbojet engines

Maximum thrust

2 × 4100 kgf

Maximum speed

Cruising speed

Practical range with combat load

Ferry range

Service ceiling

Rate of climb

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Built-in

30 mm double-barreled gun GSh-30–2 (250 rounds)

On external sling

Guided air-to-surface missiles - Kh-25 ML, Kh-25 MLP, S-25 L, Kh-29 L

Air bombs, cassettes - FAB-500, RBK-500, FAB-250, RBK-250, FAB-100, KMGU-2 containers

Shooting and gun containers - SPPU-22–1 (23 mm GSh-23 gun)

Su‑24M

The Su-24 M front-line bomber with a variable-sweep wing is designed to launch missile and bomb strikes in the operational and operational-tactical depths of the enemy day and night in simple and adverse weather conditions, including at low altitudes, with targeted destruction of ground and surface targets with controlled and controlled missiles. unguided munitions. In the west it received the designation "Fencer"

Serial production was carried out at NAPO named after Chkalov in Novosibirsk (with the participation of KNAAPO) until 1993; about 1,200 vehicles of various modifications were built, including for export.

At the turn of the century, due to the obsolescence of aviation technology, Russia began a program to modernize front-line bombers to the level of the Su-24 M2. In 2007, the first two Su-24 M2 were transferred to the Lipetsk center combat use. The delivery of the remaining vehicles to the Russian Air Force was completed in 2009.

Currently, the Russian Air Force has 21 Su-24 M aircraft of several modifications left, but as the newest Su-34s enter combat units, Su-24s are removed from service and scrapped (by 2015, 103 aircraft were scrapped). By 2020, they should be completely withdrawn from the Air Force.

Main characteristics of the Su-24M

2 people

Wingspan

At maximum sweep angle

At minimum sweep angle

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × AL-21 F-3 turbofan engines

Maximum thrust

2 × 7800 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 11200 kgf

Maximum speed at altitude

1700 km/h (M=1.35)

Maximum speed at an altitude of 200 m

Ferry range

Combat radius

Service ceiling

about 11500 m

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Built-in

23‑mm 6‑barreled gun GSh‑6–23 (500 rounds)

On external sling:

Guided air-to-air missiles - R-60

Guided air-to-surface missiles - Kh‑25 ML/MR, Kh‑23, Kh‑29 L/T, Kh‑59, S‑25 L, Kh‑58

Unguided missiles - 57 mm S-5, 80 mm S-8, 122 mm S-13, 240 mm S-24, 266 mm S-25

Air bombs, cassettes - FAB-1500, KAB-1500 L/TK, KAB-500 L/KR, ZB-500, FAB-500, RBC-500, FAB-250, RBC-250, OFAB-100, KMGU-2 containers

Shooting and gun containers - SPPU-6 (23 mm GSh-6–23 gun)

Su‑34

The Su-34 multirole fighter-bomber is the latest aircraft of this class in the Russian Air Force and belongs to the “4+” generation of aircraft. At the same time, it is positioned as a front-line bomber, since it must replace the outdated Su-24 M aircraft in the troops. Designed to carry out high-precision missile and bomb strikes, including using nuclear weapons, against ground (surface) targets at any time of the day at any weather conditions. In the west it is designated "Fullback".

By mid-2015, 69 Su-34 aircraft (including 8 prototypes) out of 124 ordered were delivered to combat units.

In the future, it is planned to supply approximately 150–200 new aircraft to the Russian Air Force and completely replace the outdated Su-24 with them by 2020. Thus, now the Su-34 is the main strike aircraft of our Air Force, capable of using the entire range of high-precision air-to-surface weapons.

Main characteristics of the Su-34

2 people

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × AL-31 F-M1 turbofan engines

Maximum thrust

2 × 8250 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 13500 kgf

Maximum speed at altitude

1900 km/h (M=1.8)

Maximum ground speed

Ferry range

Combat radius

Service ceiling

Weapons:

Built-in - 30 mm gun GSh-30–1

On the external sling - all types of modern air-to-air and air-to-surface guided missiles, unguided missiles, aerial bombs, cluster bombs

The modern fighter aircraft fleet consists of the following types of aircraft:

  • MiG-29 front-line fighters of various modifications - 184 units. In addition to the MiG-29 S, Mig-29 M and MiG-29UB modifications, the latest versions of the MiG-29 SMT and MiG-29UBT (28 and 6 units as of 2013) were put into service. At the same time, there are no plans to modernize old-built aircraft. Based on the MiG-29, the promising multi-role fighter MiG-35 was created, but the signing of a contract for its production was postponed in favor of the MiG-29 SMT.
  • front-line Su-27 fighters of various modifications - 360 units, including 52 Su-27UB. Since 2010, re-equipment has been underway with new modifications of the Su-27 SM and Su-27 SM3, of which 82 units have been delivered.
  • front-line fighters Su-35 S - 34 units. According to the contract, by 2015 it is planned to complete the delivery of a series of 48 aircraft of this type.
  • multi-role Su-30 fighters of various modifications - 51 units, including 16 Su-30 M2 and 32 Su-30 SM.  At the same time, the second series of Su-30 SM is currently being delivered; 30 units should be delivered by 2016.
  • MiG-31 fighter-interceptors of several modifications - 252 units. It is known that since 2014, MiG-31 BS aircraft have been upgraded to the MiG-31 BSM level, and another 60 MiG-31 B aircraft are planned to be upgraded to the MiG-31 BM level by 2020.

MiG-29

The fourth-generation light front-line fighter MiG-29 was developed in the USSR and has been mass-produced since 1983. In fact he was one of the best fighters of its class in the world and, having a very successful design, was repeatedly modernized and, in the form of the latest modifications, entered the 21st century as a multi-purpose aircraft as part of the Russian Air Force. Initially intended to gain air superiority at tactical depth. In the west it is known as "Fulcrum".

By the time of the collapse of the USSR, about 1,400 cars were produced at factories in Moscow and Nizhny Novgorod various options. Now the MiG-29 is in different options is in service with the armies of more than two dozen countries near and far abroad, where it has taken part in local wars and armed conflicts.

The Russian Air Force currently operates 184 MiG-29 fighters of the following modifications:

  • MiG-29 S - had an increased combat load compared to the MiG-29 and was equipped with new weapons;
  • MiG-29 M - a multi-role fighter of the “4+” generation, had an increased range and combat load, and was equipped with new weapons;
  • MiG-29UB - two-seat combat training version without radar;
  • MiG-29 SMT is the latest modernized version with the ability to use high-precision air-to-surface weapons, increased flight range, the latest electronics (first flight in 1997, adopted in 2004, 28 units delivered by 2013), weapons are located on six underwing and one ventral external suspension units, there is a built-in 30 mm cannon;
  • MiG-29UBT - combat training version of the MiG-29 SMT (6 units delivered).

For the most part, all older MiG-29 aircraft are physically outdated and it was decided not to repair or modernize them, but to purchase them instead new technology- MiG-29 SMT (a contract for the supply of 16 aircraft was signed in 2014) and MiG-29UBT, as well as promising MiG-35 fighters.

Main characteristics of the MiG-29 SMT

1 person

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × RD‑33 turbofan engines

Maximum thrust

2 × 5040 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 8300 kgf

Maximum ground speed

Cruising speed

Practical range

Practical range with PTB

2800…3500 km

Service ceiling

Weapons:

On external sling:

Guided air-to-surface missiles - Kh‑29 L/T, Kh‑31 A/P, Kh‑35

Containers KMGU-2

MiG-35

The new Russian multi-role fighter of the 4++ generation MiG-35 is a deep modernization of the MiG-29 M series aircraft, developed at the MiG Design Bureau. In design, it is maximally unified with early production aircraft, but at the same time it has an increased combat load and flight range, reduced radar signature, is equipped with an active phased array radar, the latest electronics, an on-board electronic warfare system, has an open avionics architecture, and the ability to refuel in the air. The two-seat modification is designated MiG-35 D.

The MiG-35 is designed to gain air superiority and intercept enemy air attack weapons and carry out strikes precision weapons against ground (surface) targets without entering the air defense zone day and night in any weather conditions, as well as conducting aerial reconnaissance using airborne assets.

The question of equipping the Russian Air Force with MiG-35 aircraft remains open until the contract with the Ministry of Defense is signed.

Main characteristics of the MiG-35

1 - 2 people

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × TRDDF RD‑33 MK/MKV

Maximum thrust

2 × 5400 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 9000 kgf

Maximum speed at high altitude

2400 km/h (M=2.25)

Maximum ground speed

Cruising speed

Practical range

Practical range with PTB

Combat radius

Flight duration

Service ceiling

Rate of climb

Weapons:

Built-in - 30 mm GSh-30–1 cannon (150 rounds)

On external sling:

Guided air-to-air missiles - R-73, R-27 R/T, R-27ET/ER, R-77

Guided air-to-surface missiles - Kh‑25 ML/MR, Kh‑29 L/T, Kh‑31 A/P, Kh‑35

Unguided missiles - 80 mm S-8, 122 mm S-13, 240 mm S-24

Air bombs, cassettes - FAB-500, KAB-500 L/KR, ZB-500, FAB-250, RBK-250, OFAB-100

Su-27

The Su-27 front-line fighter is a fourth-generation aircraft developed in the USSR at the Sukhoi Design Bureau in the early 1980s. It was intended to gain air superiority and was at one time one of the best fighters in its class. The latest modifications of the Su‑27 continue to be in service with the Russian Air Force; in addition, as a result of the deep modernization of the Su‑27, new models of “4+” generation fighters were developed. Along with the fourth-generation light front-line fighter, the MiG-29 was one of the best aircraft of its class in the world. According to Western classification, it is called “Flanker”.

Currently, the Air Force combat units include 226 Su‑27 and 52 Su‑27UB fighters of old production. Since 2010, re-equipment to the modernized version of the Su-27 SM began (first flight in 2002). Currently, 70 such vehicles have been delivered to the troops. In addition, fighters of the Su-27 SM3 modification are supplied (12 units were produced), which differ from the previous version in the AL-31 F-M1 engines (afterburner thrust 13,500 kgf), reinforced airframe design and additional weapons suspension points.

Main characteristics of the Su-27 SM

1 person

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × AL‑31F turbofan engines

Maximum thrust

2 × 7600 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 12500 kgf

Maximum speed at high altitude

2500 km/h (M=2.35)

Maximum ground speed

Practical range

Service ceiling

Rate of climb

more than 330 m/sec

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Built-in - 30 mm GSh-30–1 cannon (150 rounds)

Guided air-to-surface missiles - Kh‑29 L/T, Kh‑31 A/P, Kh‑59

Air bombs, cassettes - FAB-500, KAB-500 L/KR, ZB-500, FAB-250, RBK-250, OFAB-100

Su‑30

The heavy two-seat multirole fighter Su‑30 of the “4+” generation was created at the Sukhoi Design Bureau on the basis of the Su‑27UB combat trainer aircraft through deep modernization. The main purpose is to control group combat operations of fighters in solving problems of gaining air superiority, supporting combat operations of other types of aviation, covering ground troops and objects, destroying landing forces in the air, as well as conducting aerial reconnaissance and destroying ground (surface) targets. The Su-30 features a long range and flight duration and effective management a group of fighters. The aircraft's Western designation is "Flanker-C".

The Russian Air Force currently has 3 Su‑30, 16 Su‑30 M2 (all produced by KNAAPO) and 32 Su‑30 SM (produced by the Irkut plant). The last two modifications are supplied in accordance with contracts from 2012, when two batches of 30 Su-30 SM units (until 2016) and 16 Su-30 M2 units were ordered.

Main characteristics of the Su-30 SM

2 people

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × AL-31FP turbofan engines

Maximum thrust

2 × 7700 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 12500 kgf

Maximum speed at high altitude

2125 km/h (M=2)

Maximum ground speed

Flight range without ground refueling

Flight range without refueling at altitude

Combat radius

Flight duration without refueling

Service ceiling

Rate of climb

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Built-in - 30 mm GSh-30–1 cannon (150 rounds)

On external sling: Guided air-to-air missiles - R-73, R-27 R/T, R-27ET/ER, R-77

Guided air-to-surface missiles - Kh‑29 L/T, Kh‑31 A/P, Kh‑59 M

Unguided missiles - 80 mm S-8, 122 mm S-13

Air bombs, cassettes - FAB-500, KAB-500 L/KR, FAB-250, RBK-250, KMGU

Su‑35

The Su-35 multi-role super-maneuverable fighter belongs to the “4++” generation and is equipped with engines with thrust vector control. Developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau, this aircraft is very close in characteristics to fifth-generation fighters. The Su‑35 is designed to gain air superiority and intercept enemy air attack weapons, strike with high-precision weapons against ground (surface) targets without entering the air defense zone day or night in all weather conditions

conditions, as well as conducting aerial reconnaissance using airborne means. In the west it is designated “Flanker-E+”.

In 2009, a contract was signed to supply the Russian Air Force with 48 of the latest production Su‑35C fighters in the period 2012–2015, of which 34 units are already in service. It is expected to conclude another contract for the supply of these aircraft in 2015–2020.

Main characteristics of the Su-35

1 person

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × turbofans with OVT AL‑41F1S

Maximum thrust

2 × 8800 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 14500 kgf

Maximum speed at high altitude

2500 km/h (M=2.25)

Maximum ground speed

Ground range

Flight range at altitude

3600…4500 km

Service ceiling

Rate of climb

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Built-in - 30 mm GSh-30–1 cannon (150 rounds)

On external sling:

Guided air-to-air missiles - R-73, R-27 R/T, R-27ET/ER, R-77

Guided air-to-surface missiles - Kh‑29 T/L, Kh‑31 A/P, Kh‑59 M,

advanced long-range missiles

Unguided missiles - 80 mm S-8, 122 mm S-13, 266 mm S-25

Air bombs, cassettes - KAB‑500 L/KR, FAB‑500, FAB‑250, RBK‑250, KMGU

MiG-31

The two-seat supersonic all-weather long-range fighter-interceptor MiG-31 was developed in the USSR at the Mikoyan Design Bureau in the 1970s. At that time it was the first fourth generation aircraft. Designed to intercept and destroy air targets at all altitudes - from extremely low to very high, day and night, in any weather conditions, in difficult jamming environments. In fact, the main task of the MiG-31 was to intercept cruise missiles across the entire range of altitudes and speeds, as well as low-flying satellites. The fastest combat aircraft. The modern MiG-31 BM has an on-board radar with unique characteristics not yet available to other foreign aircraft. According to Western classification, it is designated “Foxhound”.

The MiG-31 fighter-interceptors currently in service with the Russian Air Force (252 units) have several modifications:

  • MiG-31 B - serial modification with an in-flight refueling system (adopted into service in 1990)
  • MiG-31 BS is a variant of the basic MiG-31, upgraded to the level of the MiG-31 B, but without an in-flight refueling boom.
  • MiG-31 BM - a modernized version with the Zaslon-M radar (developed in 1998), which has an increased range of up to 320 km, equipped with the latest electronic systems, including satellite navigation, capable of using air-to-surface guided missiles. By 2020, it is planned to upgrade 60 MiG-31 B to the level of the MiG-31 BM.  The second stage of state testing of the aircraft was completed in 2012.
  • MiG-31 BSM is a modernized version of the MiG-31 BS with the Zaslon-M radar and associated electronics. Modernization of combat aircraft has been carried out since 2014.

Thus, the Russian Air Force will have 60 MiG-31 BM and 30-40 MiG-31 BSM aircraft in service, and approximately 150 older aircraft will be decommissioned. It is possible that a new interceptor, codenamed MiG-41, will appear in the future.

Main characteristics of MiG-31 BM

2 people

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × TRDDF D‑30 F6

Maximum thrust

2 × 9500 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 15500 kgf

Maximum speed at high altitude

3000 km/h (M=2.82)

Maximum ground speed

Cruising speed subsonic

Cruise speed supersonic

Practical range

1450…3000 km

High altitude flight range with one refueling

Combat radius

Service ceiling

Rate of climb

Takeoff/run length

Weapons:

Built-in:

23‑mm 6‑barreled gun GSh‑23–6 (260 rounds)

On external sling:

Guided air-to-air missiles - R-60 M, R-73, R-77, R-40, R-33 S, R-37

Guided air-to-surface missiles - Kh‑25 MPU, Kh‑29 T/L, Kh‑31 A/P, Kh‑59 M

Air bombs, cassettes - KAB-500 L/KR, FAB-500, FAB-250, RBC-250

Promising developments

PAK-FA

The promising front-line aviation complex - PAK FA - includes a fifth-generation multi-role fighter developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau under the designation T-50. In terms of the totality of its characteristics, it will have to surpass all foreign analogues and in the near future, after being put into service, it will become the main aircraft of the front-line fighter aviation of the Russian Air Force.

The PAK FA is designed to gain air superiority and intercept enemy air attack weapons in all altitude ranges, as well as launch high-precision weapons against ground (surface) targets without entering the air defense zone day or night in any weather conditions, and can be used for aerial reconnaissance using on-board equipment. The aircraft fully meets all the requirements for fifth-generation fighters: stealth, supersonic cruising speed, high maneuverability with high overloads, advanced electronics, multifunctionality.

According to plans, serial production of the T-50 aircraft for the Russian Air Force should begin in 2016, and by 2020 the first aviation units equipped with it will appear in Russia. It is also known that production for export is possible. In particular, an export modification is being created together with India, designated FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft).

Main characteristics (estimated) of PAK-FA

1 person

Wingspan

Wing area

Empty mass

Normal take-off weight

Maximum take-off weight

Engines

2 × turbofans with UVT AL‑41F1

Maximum thrust

2 × 8800 kgf

Afterburner thrust

2 × 15000 kgf

Maximum speed at high altitude

Cruising speed

Practical range at subsonic speed

2700…4300 km

Practical range with PTB

Practical range at supersonic speed

1200…2000 km

Flight duration

Service ceiling

Rate of climb

Weapons:

Built-in - 30 mm gun 9 A1–4071 K (260 rounds)

On the internal sling - all types of modern and promising air-to-air and air-to-surface guided missiles, aerial bombs, cluster bombs

PAK-DP (MiG‑41)

Some sources report that the MiG Design Bureau, together with the design bureau of the Sokol aircraft plant (Nizhny Novgorod), is currently developing a long-range, high-speed fighter-interceptor with the code name “advanced long-range interception aircraft complex” - PAK DP, also known as MiG-41. It was stated that development began in 2013 on the basis of the MiG-31 fighter by order of the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces. Perhaps this refers to a deep modernization of the MiG-31, which was worked on earlier, but was not implemented. It was also reported that the promising interceptor is planned to be developed as part of the weapons program until 2020 and put into service until 2028.

In 2014, information appeared in the media that the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Air Force V. Bondarev said that now only research work is underway, and in 2017 it is planned to begin development work on the creation of a promising long-range interception aircraft complex.

(continued in the next issue)

Summary table of the quantitative composition of aircraft
Air Force of the Russian Federation (2014–2015)*

Aircraft type

Quantity
in service

Planned
build

Planned
modernize

Bomber aircraft as part of long-range aviation

Strategic missile carriers Tu-160

Strategic missile carriers Tu-95MS

Long-range missile carrier-bomber Tu-22M3

Bomber and attack aircraft as part of front-line aviation

Su-25 attack aircraft

Su-24M front-line bombers

Su-34 fighter-bombers

124 (total)

Fighter aircraft as part of front-line aviation

Frontline fighters MiG-29, MiG-29SMT

Frontline fighters Su-27, Su-27SM

Frontline fighters Su-35S

Multirole fighters Su-30, Su-30SM

Interceptor fighters MiG-31, MiG-31BSM

Promising aviation complex for front-line aviation - PAK FA

Military transport aviation

Transport aircraft An-22

Transport aircraft An-124 and An-124-100

Transport aircraft Il-76M, Il-76MDM, Il-76MD-90A

Transport aircraft An-12

Transport aircraft An-72

Transport aircraft An-26, An-24

Transport and passenger aircraft Il-18, Tu-134, Il-62, Tu-154, An-148, An-140

Promising military transport aircraft Il-112V

Promising military transport aircraft Il-214

Army Aviation Helicopters

Multi-purpose helicopters Mi-8M, Mi-8AMTSh, Mi-8AMT, Mi-8MTV

Transport and combat helicopters Mi-24V, Mi-24P, Mi-35

Mi-28N attack helicopters

Ka-50 attack helicopters

Ka-52 attack helicopters

146 (total)

Transport helicopters Mi-26, Mi-26M

Perspective multi-role helicopter Mi-38

Reconnaissance and special aviation

Aircraft AWACS A-50, A-50U

Airplanes RER and electronic warfare Il-20M

An-30 reconnaissance aircraft

Tu-214R reconnaissance aircraft

Tu-214ON reconnaissance aircraft

Il-80 air command posts

Il-78, Il-78M refueling aircraft

Promising AWACS aircraft A-100

Promising aircraft RER and electronic warfare A-90

Il-96-400TZ tanker aircraft

Unmanned aircraft(transferred to the Ground Forces)

"Bee-1T"

Home Structure Russian Armed Forces Air Force Structure Aviation

Aviation

Air Force Aviation (AVVS) According to its purpose and tasks, it is divided into long-range, military transport, operational-tactical and army aviation, which includes: bomber, attack, fighter, reconnaissance, transport and special aviation.

Organizationally, Air Force aviation consists of air bases that are part of Air Force formations, as well as other units and organizations directly subordinate to the Commander-in-Chief of the Air Force.

Long-Range Aviation (YES) is a means of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation and is intended to solve strategic (operational-strategic) and operational tasks in theaters of military operations (strategic directions).

The DA formations and units are armed with strategic and long-range bombers, tanker aircraft and reconnaissance aircraft. Operating primarily in strategic depth, DA formations and units perform the following main tasks: defeating air bases (airfields), ground-based missile systems, aircraft carriers and other surface ships, targets from enemy reserves, military-industrial facilities, administrative and political centers, energy objects and hydraulic structures, naval bases and ports, command posts associations of armed forces and air defense operational control centers in the theater of military operations, ground communications facilities, landing detachments and convoys; mining from the air. Some of the DA forces may be involved in conducting aerial reconnaissance and performing special tasks.

Long-range aviation is a component of strategic nuclear forces.

DA formations and units are based taking into account its operational-strategic purpose and tasks from Novgorod in the west of the country to Anadyr and Ussuriysk in the east, from Tiksi in the north and to Blagoveshchensk in the south of the country.

The basis of the aircraft fleet is the Tu-160 and Tu-95MS strategic missile carriers, Tu-22M3 long-range missile carrier-bombers, Il-78 tanker aircraft and Tu-22MR reconnaissance aircraft.

The main armament of the aircraft: long-range aircraft cruise missiles and operational-tactical missiles in nuclear and conventional configuration, as well as aircraft bombs of various purposes and calibers.

A practical demonstration of the spatial indicators of the combat capabilities of the DA command are air patrol flights of Tu-95MS and Tu-160 aircraft in the area of ​​the island of Iceland and the Norwegian Sea; on North Pole and to the Aleutian Islands region; along the east coast of South America.

Regardless organizational structure, in which long-range aviation exists and will exist, combat personnel, the characteristics of the aircraft and weapons available in service, the main task of long-range aviation on the scale of the Air Force should be considered both nuclear and non-nuclear deterrence of potential adversaries. In the event of the outbreak of war, the DA will carry out tasks to reduce the military-economic potential of the enemy, destroy important military installations, and disrupt state and military control.

Analysis modern views the purpose of the aircraft, the tasks assigned to it, and the predicted conditions for their implementation show that at present and in the future, long-range aviation continues to be the main striking force of the Air Force.

Main directions of development of long-range aviation:

  • maintaining and increasing operational capabilities to carry out assigned tasks as part of the strategic deterrence forces and general purpose forces through modernization of Tu-160, Tu-95MS, Tu-22MZ bombers with service life extension;
  • creation of a promising long-range aviation complex (PAK DA).

Military transport aviation (MTA) is a means of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation and is intended to solve strategic (operational-strategic), operational and operational-tactical tasks in theaters of military operations (strategic directions).

The military transport aircraft Il-76MD, An-26, An-22, An-124, An-12PP, and Mi-8MTV transport helicopters are in service with military transport forces and units. The main tasks of military aviation formations and units are: landing of units (units) Airborne troops from operational (operational-tactical) airborne assault forces; delivery of weapons, ammunition and materiel to troops operating behind enemy lines; ensuring maneuver of aviation formations and units; transportation of troops, weapons, ammunition and materiel; evacuation of the wounded and sick, participation in peacekeeping operations. Includes air bases, units and units of special forces.

Part of the BTA forces may be involved in performing special tasks.

The main directions of development of military transport aviation: maintaining and increasing the capabilities to ensure the deployment of the Armed Forces in various theaters of operations, airborne landings, transportation of troops and materiel by air through the purchase of new Il-76MD-90A and An-70, Il-112V aircraft and modernization of Il-76 MD and An-124 aircraft.

Operational-tactical aviation designed to solve operational (operational-tactical) and tactical tasks in operations (combat actions) of groupings of troops (forces) in theaters of military operations (strategic directions).

Army Aviation (AA) designed to solve operational-tactical and tactical tasks during army operations (combat operations).

Bomber Aviation (BA), armed with strategic, long-range and operational-tactical bombers, is the main strike weapon of the Air Force and is designed to destroy enemy troop groups, aviation, naval forces, destroy its important military, military-industrial, energy facilities, communications centers, conduct air reconnaissance and mining from the air mainly in strategic and operational depth.

Assault Aviation (AS), armed with attack aircraft, is a means of air support for troops (forces) and is intended to destroy troops, ground (sea) objects, as well as enemy aircraft (helicopters) at home airfields (sites), conduct aerial reconnaissance and mine mining from the air primarily at the forefront, in tactical and operational-tactical depth.

Fighter Aviation (IA), armed with fighter aircraft, is designed to destroy enemy aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles in the air and ground (sea) targets.

Reconnaissance aviation (RzA), armed with reconnaissance aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, is designed to conduct aerial reconnaissance of objects, the enemy, terrain, weather, air and ground radiation and chemical conditions.

Transport aviation (TrA), armed with transport aircraft, is intended for airborne landings, transportation of troops, weapons, military and special equipment and other materiel by air, ensuring maneuver and combat operations of troops (forces), performing special tasks.

Formations, units, subunits of bomber, attack, fighter, reconnaissance and transport aviation can also be involved in solving other tasks.

Special Aviation (SPA), armed with airplanes and helicopters, is designed to perform special tasks. Units and subunits of special aviation are directly or operationally subordinate to the commander of the Air Force formation and are involved in: conducting radar reconnaissance and targeting air and ground (sea) targets; installation of electronic interference and aerosol curtains; search and rescue of flight crews and passengers; in-flight refueling of aircraft; evacuation of the wounded and sick; providing control and communications; conducting aerial radiation, chemical, biological, engineering reconnaissance and performing other tasks.



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