Russia maintains Su-34 production despite combat losses

Russia is maintaining a stable production line for Su-34 fighter-bombers despite international sanctions. Recent sightings at the Viva Avia aviation festival in Novosibirsk revealed a newly manufactured Su-34 still wearing its factory primer, confirming that the Novosibirsk Aircraft Plant (NAPO) continues regular production for the Russian Aerospace Forces.

However, current production rates may be insufficient to offset combat losses sustained during the conflict in Ukraine. Data indicates that while 212 Su-34 units had been delivered to the Russian Air Force by early 2026, the pace of delivery—16 aircraft in 2024 and 18 in 2025—is likely being outpaced by attrition. Visual verification from Oryx suggests at least 43 Su-34 aircraft have been lost since February 2022, with the actual number of destroyed units potentially being higher.

The Su-34, designated ‘Fullback’ by NATO, is a twin-engine fighter-bomber designed to replace the Su-24. Future capabilities are expected to be bolstered by the introduction of modernized Su-34M variants, which will enhance precision strike capacities.