Russia’s United Instrument Manufacturing (UIMC) will install a non-intrusive modern communication system on Su-35 fighter aircraft, to be used by the Chinese Air Force.
China is buying 24 Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets from Russia for around $2bn, under a deal agreed by the two countries last week.
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UIMC’s S-108 communication system will provide secure communications resistant to interference and are integrated into a single network for tactical aviation.
The company will also deliver communication systems for China’s military airfields.
UIMC deputy CEO Sergey Skokov said: "Russia and China signed a major contract for the purchase of the Su-35 multipurpose fighters. The S-108 updated communications system, which is part of the fighter’s equipment, facilitates the inclusion of these aircraft in automated military control systems.
"While working in anti-interference mode, the system facilitates information exchange between all communication systems used by the air force."
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By GlobalDataAccording to UIMC, the new system has a greater radio bandwidth, an increased number of concurrent data links, a reduced delivery time, and greater accuracy in receiving messages while fending off electronic countermeasures, when compared to the previous systems.
China’s Sukhoi fleet will also be supported by UIMC’s NKVS-27 ground-based system for communication with frontline aircraft.
"The system organises networks and communication channels, primarily for tactical aircraft such as the Su-27SKM, Su-30MK2, Su-35, and other aircraft.
"It has a functional command post and performs automated control commands, transmits commands to higher levels of management, and monitors and records processes carried out in performing flight missions.
"The NKVS-27 enables multi-channel voice and data communication with the aircraft across all modes of their combat use and at a distance of up to 1,500km," Skokov added.
China is the first foreign country to purchase Su-35 fighter planes, which have been in operation with the Russian Air Force for some time.
The Su-35 is a 4++ generation aircraft employing technologies of the fifth generation, and is claimed to be superior to all other fourth generation fighters under development worldwide.
Image: The secure communications system is resistant to interference. Photo: courtesy of Rostec.
