The S-21 supersonic business jet project continuing according to Simonov of Sukhoi

Published: 6/22/1999

According to press reports, Mr Mikhail Simonov, the irrepressible Chief Designer of Sukhoi, has claimed that the S-21 supersonic business jet, which was prominently displayed in the Sukhoi chalet during the Paris Air Show, is near to completion. The reports state that the aircraft's design plans will be completed later in 1999 and that the first flight will take place during 2002. The aircraft has been designed to have a considerably smaller supersonic shock level than Concorde, so allowing much greater flying flexibility. It is also reported to provide a high level of fuel economy in both subsonic and supersonic flight. According to Mr Simonov, Dassault's recent cancellation of its supersonic business jet project, the Falcon SST, was because of the absence of a suitable engine in France. Mr Simonov contends that Russia's VK-21 can meet the requirements for such an aircraft. Mr Simonov has further claimed that Sukhoi has sufficient financial and industrial resources both to build the aircraft and to resolve its technical challenges. He also believes that the company need not rely on support from western partners in order to complete the project. Mr Simonov does, however, acknowledge that Sukhoi will require western assistance in gaining certification and in setting up global support. Such claims seem to substantiate rumours that Mr Simonov has lost touch with reality. A recent anecdote cites his walking into the office of Mr Pogosyan, General Director, to demand that a draft be signed for substantial funds, arguing that no explanation was necessary beyond the fact that the money was required. The cost of undertaking a project such as the Su-21 is enormous, especially considering that two of the largest players in the executive jet market have withdrawn from supersonic projects on the grounds that the costs could not be recovered by potential sales. Dassault estimated R&D costs as being in the region of $1 billion: double those of a sub-sonic business jet. The prototype aircraft potentially could fly by the target date of 2002, but the costs could still exceed $30 million. Sukhoi has proved itself up to the challenge with various other projects of late; of getting airframes in the air, but often just, according to reports of the flight of the Su-37. The issue of funding is also one that stirs the Russian love of intrigue, with rumours talking of a mystery supporter of the company who has historically provided finance when required. The history of the Su-21 is a chequered one. Sukhoi originally conceived it in 1987 and then later as a joint venture with Gulfstream from 1988 until 1992, when Gulfstream withdrew from the venture. The aircraft was originally to have flown in 1994. For Concise this project looks like a long shot.

Article ID: 608