Sukhoi Su-47 Berkut or Golden Eagle. Russia at one point in time, actually did have an aircraft that could match the maneuverability of western fighters, before the PAK FA was born. The Su-47 was their first forward swept wing fighter jet that was designed for air to air combat. She was put through many tests shortly after her first flight, including testing its maneuvering at airshows. The Su-47 was powered by 2 Aviadvigatel D-30F6 afterburning, thrust-vectoring turbofans (PFU Modified). These engines did in fact give it thrust vectoring capability, along with canards for improved stability. The aircraft alone was enough to rival and par aircraft like the F-15, F-16, and F-22. Sadly, she did not see production. There were indeed many good things about this aircraft, but all further talks of putting it into service were dropped, which greatly was a disappointment to the Russian Air Force. Production and Service admittance was denied because of the wings itself. The wings of the aircraft were made with composite materials. These materials were far too expensive for Russia to maintain use with, so the Berkut project was cancelled. This aircraft alone, if it was sent into combat, would have an impressive 14 hard points. She could be used for air to air, air to ground, and air to sea. If Russia had the money, this one aircraft would have definitely give Western jets a run for their money. ~FSQ
Posted on: Sun, 14 Dec 2014 12:00:10 +0000
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