The Su-35, a Russian multirole fighter aircraft, is equipped with a highly advanced radar system, the Irbis-E. This phased array radar system provides the Su-35 with unparalleled air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, significantly enhancing its combat effectiveness. The Irbis-E radar is designed to detect and track multiple targets at long ranges, enabling the Su-35 to engage enemy aircraft and ground targets with precision-guided munitions.
Technical Specifications of the Irbis-E Radar
The Irbis-E radar system features a passive phased array antenna, which allows for electronic beam steering and provides a high degree of flexibility in terms of radar modes and capabilities. The radar operates in the X-band frequency range and has a maximum power output of 20 kW. The Irbis-E radar is capable of detecting targets at ranges of up to 200 km (124 miles) in the air-to-air mode and 40 km (25 miles) in the air-to-ground mode. The radar can track up to 30 targets simultaneously and engage up to 8 targets at a time.
Radar Range and Detection Capabilities
The radar range of the Irbis-E is a critical factor in the Su-35’s air superiority capabilities. The radar can detect targets with a radar cross-section (RCS) of 1 square meter at a range of 150 km (93 miles). For targets with a larger RCS, such as bomber aircraft, the detection range can be as high as 200 km (124 miles). The radar’s high detection range and multi-target tracking capabilities enable the Su-35 to engage enemy aircraft at beyond-visual-range (BVR) distances, giving it a significant advantage in air-to-air combat.
| Target Type | Detection Range |
|---|---|
| Fighter aircraft (1 sqm RCS) | 150 km (93 miles) |
| Bomber aircraft (10 sqm RCS) | 200 km (124 miles) |
| Cruise missile (0.1 sqm RCS) | 100 km (62 miles) |
Comparison with Other Radar Systems
The Irbis-E radar system is comparable to other advanced radar systems, such as the AN/APG-81 radar used in the F-35 Lightning II. While the AN/APG-81 has a slightly higher detection range, the Irbis-E has a higher power output and better multi-target tracking capabilities. The Irbis-E is also more resistant to electronic countermeasures (ECMs) due to its advanced signal processing algorithms and adaptive beamforming capabilities.
Air-to-Ground Capabilities
The Irbis-E radar system also provides the Su-35 with advanced air-to-ground capabilities, including the ability to detect and track ground targets, such as tanks and armored vehicles. The radar can operate in several air-to-ground modes, including a high-resolution mapping mode and a moving target indication (MTI) mode. The MTI mode allows the radar to detect and track moving targets, such as vehicles, while rejecting stationary clutter.
Key Points
- The Su-35's Irbis-E radar system has a maximum detection range of 200 km (124 miles) in the air-to-air mode.
- The radar can track up to 30 targets simultaneously and engage up to 8 targets at a time.
- The Irbis-E radar system is resistant to electronic countermeasures (ECMs) due to its advanced signal processing algorithms and adaptive beamforming capabilities.
- The radar provides the Su-35 with advanced air-to-ground capabilities, including the ability to detect and track ground targets.
- The Irbis-E radar system is comparable to other advanced radar systems, such as the AN/APG-81 radar used in the F-35 Lightning II.
In conclusion, the Su-35's Irbis-E radar system is a highly advanced and capable radar system that provides the aircraft with unparalleled air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities. Its long detection ranges, multi-target tracking capabilities, and resistance to electronic countermeasures make it one of the most capable radar systems in the world.
What is the maximum detection range of the Irbis-E radar system?
+The maximum detection range of the Irbis-E radar system is 200 km (124 miles) in the air-to-air mode.
How many targets can the Irbis-E radar system track simultaneously?
+The Irbis-E radar system can track up to 30 targets simultaneously.
Is the Irbis-E radar system resistant to electronic countermeasures (ECMs)?
+Yes, the Irbis-E radar system is resistant to electronic countermeasures (ECMs) due to its advanced signal processing algorithms and adaptive beamforming capabilities.
