Video Just released of the downing of a SU-30SM over Ukraine. You can see the outline of the aircraft and fire to the rear of the aircraft. It appears the aircraft is in a near-vertical descent before the pilots are able to level out long enough to bail from the aircraft. Where the video took place and when is unknown, as well as what brought down the aircraft and the status of the pilots.

The SU-30SM is an upgraded version of the SU-30, which was introduced into the Russian Air force in 1996. The SU-30SM is supposed to have upgraded sensors, radars, and ejection seats. However, the aircraft’s reported most notable upgrade is to the engines, which it has steerable thrusters giving the aircraft a label of ‘supermaneuverable.’

About the Author

Mark Hanson

Mark is a US army veteran who served as a Field Artillery Firefinder Radar operator, with 2-3 FA with the 1st Armored Div. and then as a Military Police officer as a reservist with the 302nd MP co. Mark also has experience in non-military law enforcement. He has one deployment to a conflict zone in Saudi Arabia. He is the newest member of Funker530, starting to write for the website in March 2023.