Additional information
by Hugh Harkins (Author)
The Su-30MKK/MK2/M2 family of combat aircraft share the same numerical designation as the Su-30MK/MKI/SM family of multi-role combat aircraft which were clearly derived from the Su-30M, which was, itself, derived from the Su-27UB two-seat operational conversion variant of the Su-27S single-seat air superiority fighter. However, the numerical designation and some first glance looks aside, the Su-30MKK family is fundamentally a different design from the Su-30MKI family in terms of primary design role, internal systems and structure; certainly in regards to the latter the aircraft having more in common with the Su-27M (first generation Su-35) than the Su-27UB or Su-30M. This volume covers the evolution of the Su-30 design from the Su-27, which was born out of the T-10 development program of the 1970's. The evolution of the Su-30M interceptor into the multi-role Su-30MK is described. The Su-30MKK is covered in detail, as are the improved Su-30MK2 for the export market and the Su-30M2 strike fighter developed for the Russian Federation Air Force. The aircraft and systems are described in detail, as are the weapons that can be employed by the respective variants. The enigma that is the Su-35UB is included as that aircraft, in regards to structure, has more in common with the Su-30MKK family than any other Su-27 family variant. All technical information regarding the aircraft, systems and weapons have been provided by the respective manufacturers, as have many of the photographs and diagrams. Elements of the first and fifth chapters borrow certain texts from the volumes 'Sukhoi Su-35S 'Flanker' E, Russia's 4++ Generation Super-Manoeuvrability Fighter' and 'Sukhoi T-50/PAK FA, Russia's 5th Generation 'Stealth' Fighter'.
