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Sukhoi Su-27

The Sukhoi Su-27 is a Soviet-designed twin-engine supersonic fighter aircraft built by Sukhoi and known by the NATO reporting name Flanker.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Sukhoi Su-27 is a Soviet-designed twin-engine supersonic fighter aircraft built by Sukhoi and known by the NATO reporting name Flanker. It was developed as a long-range air-superiority fighter and entered service in 1984. The aircraft’s design led to several major derivatives, including the Su-30, Su-33, Su-35 and Su-37.

Development

The Su-27 was developed in the Soviet Union by Sukhoi as a response to advanced Western fighters. It first flew in 1977 and entered service in 1984.

Design and capabilities

The aircraft is a twin-engine, single-seat fighter built for high manoeuvrability and long-range air combat. Sources describe it as a supersonic supermaneuverable fighter with strong endurance and air-superiority performance.

Operational use

The Su-27 has been used by Russian and other air forces, and it has served in both interceptor and fighter roles. Trainer and export variants expanded its use beyond the original Soviet deployment.

Variants and derivatives

The Su-27 family produced multiple major variants and redesignations. These include the Su-30, Su-33, Su-35 and Su-37, along with export and trainer versions such as the Su-27SK and Su-27UB.

Key facts

  • The Su-27 is a Soviet twin-engine supersonic fighter aircraft designed by Sukhoi.
  • It was developed as a long-range air-superiority fighter and entered service in 1984.
  • The aircraft is known by the NATO reporting name Flanker.
  • Its design led to several major derivatives, including the Su-30, Su-33, Su-35 and Su-37.
  • The Su-27 has been operated by several air forces outside Russia, including in Asia, Europe and Africa.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Sukhoi Su-27?
It is a Soviet twin-engine fighter aircraft designed by Sukhoi and known by the NATO reporting name Flanker.
What was the Su-27 designed for?
It was designed as a long-range air-superiority fighter and interceptor.
When did the Su-27 enter service?
The Su-27 entered service in 1984.
What is the NATO name for the Su-27?
Its NATO reporting name is Flanker.
What aircraft came from the Su-27 family?
Major derivatives include the Su-30, Su-33, Su-35 and Su-37.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sukhoi_Su-27
    Supports: Basic identification of the aircraft as the Sukhoi Su-27, NATO name Flanker, and its Soviet origin and role.
  2. Airforce Technology — https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/su27/
    Supports: Twin-engine, highly manoeuvrable fighter description, air-superiority role, manufacturer, export designation, and derivative family.
  3. National Museum of the U.S. Air Force — https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/3566120/sukhoi-su-27ub-flanker-c-trainer/
    Supports: Su-27UB trainer variant, entry into service, mission, and operational context.
  4. SKYbrary Aviation Safety — https://www.skybrary.aero/aircraft/su27
    Supports: In-service date, operational roles, and derivative variants.