Kornukov says new Su-27IB performing well in tests (300 words)

Published: 1/19/2001

It seems that the change of administration is giving the Russian Air Force - long-depressed about the prospect of receiving any new equipment or upgrades within the foreseeable future - some sense of optimism that the schedules may be somewhat shorter than envisaged only a few months ago, particularly for new aircraft. Air Force chief, Anatoly Kornukov says that the new Su-27IB strike aircraft is performing well in tests, despite some problems with the aircraft's on-board computers and its combat load, which he says, are solvable. The Military News Agency has cited sources that suggest the aircraft could be in service in 2004, with an upgrade to the Air Force's current Su-24 strike force in 2001-2002, featuring both life extensions and the increase in aircraft capability. Other sources have reported Kornukov as singing the praises of the MiG-29SMT upgrade; stating that it demonstrates between a 3 and 4-fold improvement to its performance compared with that of its predecessor, as does the Su-27E over the Su-27M. The latter's improvement is actually cited as being 5-6 times. Whether these aircraft will enter service within the time scales stated is another matter. Funding was, in principle, improved earlier this year and the focus has been on expenditure for upgrades of the Air Force's major systems. The current government's greater focus on the military may just give General Kornukov his aircraft. According to Antonov, they have already approved delivery schedules for the An-70 with both the Ukrainian and Russian governments. The programme however, still requires final approval, which will be given by Kornukov on the 22nd of January. Whether the approval will actually mean orders, is unclear, as the Russian MoD have been muted in their discussions about the size of any potential orders. This has led some to believe that the MoD would rather favour the Il-76MF.

Article ID: 2304