The Ultimate Guide to SUKHOI Su-24 Specs – In-depth Analysis

SUKHOI Su-24 Specs refer to the specifications and technical characteristics of the Sukhoi Su-24, a supersonic, variable-sweep wing, two-seat, all-weather attack aircraft developed by the Soviet Union.

The Su-24 was designed to carry out a wide range of missions, including close air support, interdiction, and anti-ship strikes. It is known for its rugged construction, high maneuverability, and potent armament, which includes a 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, various air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, and bombs. The Su-24 has seen extensive combat use in various conflicts, including the Soviet-Afghan War and the Chechen Wars.

Main article topics:

• Design and development
• Operational history
• Variants
• Operators
• Specifications

SUKHOI Su-24 Specs

The Sukhoi Su-24 is a supersonic, variable-sweep wing, two-seat, all-weather attack aircraft developed by the Soviet Union. It is known for its rugged construction, high maneuverability, and potent armament. The Su-24 has seen extensive combat use in various conflicts, including the Soviet-Afghan War and the Chechen Wars.

• Maximum speed: Mach 2.3
• Range: 1,150 km (715 mi)
• Armament: 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, various air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, and bombs
• Crew: 2
• Length: 24.59 m (80 ft 8 in)
• Wingspan: 17.64 m (57 ft 10 in)
• Height: 6.19 m (20 ft 4 in)
• Weight: 22,300 kg (49,160 lb)

These specifications make the Su-24 a formidable attack aircraft. Its high speed and range allow it to reach targets deep within enemy territory, while its potent armament and rugged construction enable it to carry out a wide range of missions, from close air support to anti-ship strikes.

Maximum speed

The Sukhoi Su-24’s maximum speed of Mach 2.3 is a critical aspect of its performance and mission capabilities. This supersonic speed enables the aircraft to:

• Rapidly reach targets: The Su-24 can quickly deploy to distant locations, allowing it to respond swiftly to emerging threats or provide close air support to ground forces.
• Penetrate enemy defenses: The high speed of the Su-24 makes it difficult for enemy air defenses to intercept and engage the aircraft, increasing its survivability and mission success.
• Conduct effective attacks: The Su-24’s speed allows it to deliver ordnance accurately and effectively, even against fast-moving or heavily defended targets.
• Escape from danger: In the event of an attack or threat, the Su-24’s high speed enables it to rapidly disengage and evade enemy forces.

Overall, the maximum speed of Mach 2.3 is a key factor in the Sukhoi Su-24’s effectiveness as a supersonic attack aircraft, providing it with exceptional mobility, survivability, and offensive capabilities.

Range

The range of 1,150 km (715 mi) is a critical aspect of the Sukhoi Su-24’s specifications, enabling it to perform a wide range of missions and providing significant operational advantages.

• Extended operational radius: The Su-24’s range allows it to operate far from its base, providing flexibility in mission planning and execution. It can reach distant targets deep within enemy territory, conduct patrols over vast areas, and provide support to ground forces over extended distances.
• Increased mission endurance: The aircraft’s long range enables it to remain airborne for extended periods, allowing it to carry out missions, provide persistent support to ground troops, or conduct multiple attacks in a single sortie.
• Enhanced survivability: The Su-24’s range allows it to operate from safer distances, reducing its exposure to enemy air defenses and increasing its chances of mission success and crew survivability.
• Strategic flexibility: The aircraft’s long range provides strategic flexibility, allowing it to be deployed to different theaters of operation or respond to emerging threats with greater speed and efficiency.

In summary, the range of 1,150 km (715 mi) is a key factor in the Sukhoi Su-24’s capabilities as an attack aircraft, enabling it to conduct a diverse range of missions with extended operational reach, mission endurance, survivability, and strategic flexibility.

Armament

The armament suite of the Sukhoi Su-24 is a critical aspect of its specifications, defining its combat capabilities and effectiveness in various mission roles. The aircraft’s armament includes a 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, and a range of bombs, providing it with a diverse and potent offensive arsenal.

• Air-to-Air Missiles: The Su-24 can be equipped with various air-to-air missiles, such as the R-27 and R-73, enhancing its self-defense capabilities against aerial threats. These missiles provide the aircraft with beyond-visual-range and close-range combat options, allowing it to engage enemy aircraft effectively.
• Air-to-Ground Missiles: The Su-24’s armament includes a range of air-to-ground missiles, including anti-radar missiles like the Kh-28 and anti-ship missiles like the Kh-31. These missiles allow the aircraft to strike ground targets, such as enemy radar installations, air defense systems, and naval vessels, with precision and effectiveness.
• Bombs: The Su-24 can carry a variety of bombs, including unguided bombs, guided bombs, and cluster bombs. This allows the aircraft to deliver ordnance on ground targets with varying degrees of accuracy and destructive power, providing flexibility in mission execution and target engagement.
• 30 mm GSh-6-30 Cannon: The Su-24 is equipped with a 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, which provides the aircraft with a close-range defensive armament against ground targets and aerial threats. The cannon’s high rate of fire and explosive rounds make it effective in engaging lightly armored vehicles, infantry, and low-flying aircraft.

In summary, the armament suite of the Sukhoi Su-24, comprising a 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, various air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, and bombs, significantly contributes to the aircraft’s combat capabilities. This armament allows the Su-24 to effectively engage aerial and ground targets, providing it with a versatile and potent offensive arsenal for a wide range of mission roles.

Crew

The specification “Crew: 2” in the Sukhoi Su-24 Specs signifies a critical aspect of the aircraft’s design and operational capabilities. The Su-24 is a two-seat aircraft, accommodating a pilot and a weapon systems officer (WSO) in a tandem seating arrangement.

This crew configuration provides several advantages:

• Enhanced Situational Awareness: With two crew members, the Su-24 benefits from increased situational awareness. The pilot can focus on flying the aircraft and maintaining control, while the WSO can monitor the aircraft’s systems, operate sensors, and manage weapons employment.
• Improved Mission Effectiveness: The division of tasks between the pilot and WSO allows for more efficient and effective mission execution. The WSO can dedicate their attention to operating the aircraft’s advanced avionics and weapons systems, optimizing their use and increasing the aircraft’s combat effectiveness.
• Increased Survivability: Having two crew members enhances the Su-24’s survivability in combat situations. In the event of an emergency or if one crew member becomes incapacitated, the other crew member can take over essential tasks, ensuring the aircraft’s safe return to base.

The “Crew: 2” specification is not merely a numerical value but a fundamental design choice that significantly contributes to the Sukhoi Su-24’s capabilities as an attack aircraft. The two-seat configuration enhances situational awareness, improves mission effectiveness, and increases survivability, making the Su-24 a formidable and versatile combat platform.

Length

The specification “Length: 24.59 m (80 ft 8 in)” is a crucial aspect of the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” as it directly relates to the aircraft’s design, performance, and capabilities.

The length of an aircraft is a primary determinant of its physical size, which has a significant impact on various factors:

• Aerodynamics: The length of the Su-24 influences its aerodynamic characteristics, such as drag, stability, and maneuverability. The aircraft’s elongated fuselage provides a larger surface area for lift generation, contributing to its overall flight performance.
• Internal Volume: The length of the Su-24 accommodates the aircraft’s internal systems, including the cockpit, avionics, fuel tanks, and weapons bay. This internal volume allows for the integration of advanced equipment and weaponry, enhancing the aircraft’s combat capabilities.
• Payload Capacity: The length of the Su-24 directly affects its payload capacity, which is the amount of weight it can carry in terms of fuel, weapons, and other equipment. A longer fuselage provides more space for internal fuel storage, increasing the aircraft’s range and endurance.

In summary, the “Length: 24.59 m (80 ft 8 in)” specification is a fundamental aspect of the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” that contributes to the aircraft’s overall design, aerodynamics, internal volume, payload capacity, and mission capabilities.

Wingspan

The “Wingspan: 17.64 m (57 ft 10 in)” specification is a critical aspect of the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” as it directly relates to the aircraft’s aerodynamic performance, maneuverability, and overall flight characteristics.

• Lift Generation: The wingspan is a primary determinant of the lift generated by the aircraft. The Su-24’s relatively long wingspan allows for a larger wing area, which increases the amount of lift produced at a given airspeed. This enhanced lift generation contributes to the aircraft’s overall stability and low-speed handling.
• Maneuverability: The wingspan also influences the aircraft’s maneuverability. The Su-24’s long wingspan provides greater roll stability and reduces the rate of roll, making it more stable during high-speed maneuvers. However, it also limits the aircraft’s agility and turn performance compared to aircraft with shorter wingspans.
• Range and Endurance: The wingspan affects the aircraft’s range and endurance. A longer wingspan typically allows for a larger fuel capacity, enabling the Su-24 to fly longer distances without refueling. This increased range and endurance are crucial for long-range strike missions and combat air patrols.
• Payload Capacity: The wingspan can have an indirect impact on the aircraft’s payload capacity. A wider wingspan can provide more space for external hardpoints, allowing the Su-24 to carry a greater variety and quantity of weapons, fuel tanks, or other payloads.

In summary, the “Wingspan: 17.64 m (57 ft 10 in)” specification in the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” is a key factor that influences the aircraft’s aerodynamic performance, maneuverability, range, endurance, and payload capacity, making it a critical aspect of the Su-24’s overall design and capabilities.

Height

The specification “Height: 6.19 m (20 ft 4 in)” is a critical aspect of the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” as it directly relates to the aircraft’s design, performance, and capabilities.

• Ground Clearance: The height of the Su-24 affects its ground clearance, influencing its ability to operate from rough or unprepared airstrips. The aircraft’s relatively high ground clearance allows it to navigate uneven terrain and obstacles during takeoff and landing, enhancing its operational flexibility and suitability for frontline combat environments.
• Internal Volume: The height of the Su-24 contributes to the aircraft’s internal volume, which accommodates the crew, avionics, and other equipment. The increased internal volume provides ample space for the aircraft’s systems and allows for the integration of advanced technology, enhancing its combat effectiveness.
• Radar Cross-Section: The height of the Su-24 influences its radar cross-section (RCS), a measure of how visible the aircraft is to radar detection. The aircraft’s relatively low height reduces its RCS, making it less detectable by enemy radar systems, increasing its survivability in combat situations.
• Hangar Compatibility: The height of the Su-24 is a factor in its compatibility with hangars and maintenance facilities. The aircraft’s relatively compact height allows it to fit into standard hangars, facilitating maintenance and storage operations, which are crucial for sustained operations and mission readiness.

In summary, the “Height: 6.19 m (20 ft 4 in)” specification in the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” is a key factor that influences the aircraft’s ground clearance, internal volume, radar cross-section, and hangar compatibility, contributing to its overall design, performance, and operational capabilities.

Weight

The specification “Weight: 22,300 kg (49,160 lb)” is a critical aspect of the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” as it directly relates to the aircraft’s performance, capabilities, and operational characteristics.

The weight of an aircraft is a primary determinant of its overall performance. The Su-24’s relatively high weight contributes to its stability, structural integrity, and payload capacity, making it well-suited for its intended roles as an attack aircraft and close air support platform.

The aircraft’s weight is a result of the materials used in its construction, the size and complexity of its systems, and the amount of fuel and payload it can carry. The Su-24’s robust airframe and powerful engines allow it to carry a significant payload of weapons and equipment, enhancing its combat effectiveness.

Furthermore, the Su-24’s weight affects its takeoff and landing performance. The aircraft requires a longer takeoff distance and higher landing speed compared to lighter aircraft, necessitating proper runway length and infrastructure for safe operation.

In summary, the “Weight: 22,300 kg (49,160 lb)” specification in the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” is a key factor that influences the aircraft’s performance, payload capacity, stability, and operational requirements, making it an important consideration in mission planning and combat operations.

FAQs on “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs”

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding the specifications, capabilities, and operational aspects of the Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft.

Question 1: What is the primary role of the Sukhoi Su-24?

Answer: The Sukhoi Su-24 is primarily designed as an attack aircraft, specializing in close air support, interdiction, and anti-ship strike missions.

Question 2: How does the variable-sweep wing design benefit the Su-24?

Answer: The variable-sweep wing allows the Su-24 to adjust its wing angle during flight. This feature enhances maneuverability at low speeds and provides greater stability and efficiency at high speeds.

Question 3: What are the key features of the Su-24’s armament system?

Answer: The Su-24 is equipped with a 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon and can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, as well as bombs. This armament suite provides versatility and effectiveness against various targets.

Question 4: How does the Su-24’s range and endurance compare to other attack aircraft?

Answer: With a range of 1,150 km and extended endurance, the Su-24 can operate far from its base and remain airborne for extended periods, enabling it to carry out long-range missions and provide persistent support.

Question 5: What factors influence the Su-24’s weight and performance?

Answer: The Su-24’s weight is a result of its robust construction, powerful engines, and payload capacity. The aircraft’s weight affects its takeoff and landing requirements, as well as its overall stability and performance.

Question 6: How does the Su-24’s design contribute to its survivability in combat?

Answer: The Su-24’s low height and reduced radar cross-section enhance its stealth capabilities. Additionally, its armor plating and redundant systems provide protection against enemy fire, increasing its survivability in hostile environments.

In summary, the Sukhoi Su-24’s specifications and design features make it a formidable and versatile attack aircraft, capable of carrying out a wide range of missions with precision and effectiveness.

Transition: To further explore the operational history, variants, and operators of the Sukhoi Su-24, please refer to the following article sections.

Tips on Understanding “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs”

The specifications of the Sukhoi Su-24 are crucial for comprehending its capabilities and operational characteristics. Here are a few tips to enhance your understanding of these specs:

Tip 1: Focus on Key Specifications: Prioritize understanding the most critical specifications, such as maximum speed, range, armament, crew, dimensions, and weight. These core specs provide a solid foundation for grasping the aircraft’s overall performance and capabilities.

Tip 2: Consider Interrelation of Specs: Recognize that the specifications are interconnected. For instance, the aircraft’s weight influences its performance, range, and payload capacity. Understanding these relationships provides a comprehensive view of the aircraft’s capabilities.

Tip 3: Compare with Similar Aircraft: Compare the Su-24’s specifications with those of comparable aircraft to gain perspective on its strengths and weaknesses. This comparison helps in assessing its relative capabilities and suitability for specific missions.

Tip 4: Explore Historical Context: Understand the historical context in which the Su-24 was developed and the operational requirements it was designed to meet. This context provides insights into why certain specifications were prioritized.

Tip 5: Consult Reputable Sources: Refer to reliable sources, such as official documentation, technical reports, and reputable aviation publications, to ensure accurate and up-to-date information on the Su-24’s specifications.

By following these tips, you can effectively grasp the “SUKHOI Su-24 Specs” and gain a deeper understanding of this formidable attack aircraft.

Transition: To further explore the operational history, variants, and operators of the Sukhoi Su-24, please refer to the following article sections.

Conclusion

The Sukhoi Su-24, with its impressive specifications and capabilities, stands as a formidable attack aircraft. Its high speed, extended range, potent armament, and advanced avionics make it well-suited for a wide range of combat missions, including close air support, interdiction, and anti-ship strikes.

The aircraft’s variable-sweep wing design provides versatility, allowing it to adapt to different flight conditions and mission requirements. The Su-24’s robust construction, survivability features, and proven combat record further enhance its value as a frontline asset.