6. Sukhoi Su-30SM
In service: 2009
Speed: Mach 2.0
Su-30 was conceived as a long-range interceptor, able to cover vast expanses of Russia without the need for many refueling. The design evolved over time and the end product is a 4+ generation multirole jet fighter. The main visual differences between Su-27 and Su-30 are added canards and a two-seat cockpit in Su-30. With thrust vectoring, Su-30is one of the most maneuverable fighters in service today. The fighter has been a huge export success, in part to customization packages offered by Sukhoi, so that each customer could tailor it to their needs. Each variant has its own designation, MKI for India, MKK for China, MKM for Malesia, MKV for Venezuela and few others. A majority of Su-30s in Russian service are of SM version.
