The Su-22 fighter jet is the export version of the Su-17 attack (bomber) aircraft developed by the former Soviet Union in the 1960s. This fighter jet was very successful, serving for a long time in the Soviet and later Russian air forces, and was also used by the air forces of many Eastern European, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries.
To date, the former Soviet Union and later Russia have produced approximately 2,200 Su-17, Su-20, and Su-22 aircraft.
The Vietnam People's Air Force began fielding Su-22M/UM fighter-bombers with Soviet support in 1979 to gradually replace the MIG-21 and MIG-19 fighter aircraft.
Currently, the Vietnamese Air Force has a large number of Su-22M, Su-22UM3K (training), and Su-22M4 fighter-bombers in its inventory, with the Su-22M4 being the most modern version.
A Su-22 aircraft of the 929th Regiment, 372nd Division of the Vietnam Air Force takes off to perform a training mission. (Photo: Air Defense - Air Force Newspaper)
What is special about the Su-22 fighter-bomber?
Inheriting the design of the Su-17 and equipped with the Lyulka AL-21F-3 jet engine, the Su-22 fighter-bomber can travel at supersonic speeds even at low altitudes and reach speeds of over 2,000 km/h at high altitudes with its wings folded.
The Su-22's weapon system includes two 30mm automatic cannons (80 rounds/minute rate) mounted on the wings, two underwing pylons capable of carrying two R-60 air-to-air missiles (range 8km), and 10 additional pylons (six under the wings and four on the fuselage).
In ground target attacks, the Su-22 can carry guided weapons including: Kh-23, Kh-25, Kh-28, Kh-29 air-to-ground missiles and laser- or optically guided bombs.
Within the Su-22 family of aircraft, the Su-22M4 is the most advanced and best-equipped version for combat operations in limited visibility and at night, suitable for ground attack missions with guided and unguided weapons, as well as aerial reconnaissance. Within a limited range, the aircraft can also be used to destroy airborne targets.
Additionally, the Su-22M4 is also equipped with K-36D ejection seats (also used on the MiG-29 and Su-27).
Most versions of the Su-22 are piloted by a single pilot, except for training versions like the Su-22UM which have two seats.
The Su-22M4 aircraft belongs to the 937th Regiment, 370th Air Division. (Photo: People's Army Newspaper)
Regarding other technical specifications, the Su-22 has a wingspan of 13.68m, a swept wingspan of 10.02m, and a maximum takeoff weight of 19 tons. This fighter-bomber can fly at a maximum speed of 1,400 km/h over the sea and 1,860 km/h at high altitude, with a service ceiling of 14,200 m, a range of 1,150 km (attack) and 2,300 km (patrol), and a combat radius of 360 km (low altitude) and 630 km (high altitude) when carrying 2.2 tons of weapons.
Tra Khanh
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