Sukhoi Su-28

The Sukhoi Su-28 is a downgraded variant of the Su-25UB/Su-25T, with reductions in avionics and aircraft systems, together with a full reduction of weapon-carrying capability. The Su-28 trainer is intended for technical skill, general flight and formation flying training. It is also used as a demonstrator of advanced aero-maneuvers.

Design and development

The Su-28 is a highly maneuverable and robust aircraft with the ability to perform take-off and landing with only one of its two engines running. The aircraft's engines can also run on a diesel based fuel as opposed to more traditional aviation fuel. Like the Mig-29 it also has the ability to operate from unpaved runways while maintaining high reliability and a low maintenance requirement. It will withstand heavy landings, allowing it to be more forgiving in the training role. Range can be extended by up to four PTB-800 drop tanks, each of 800 litres capacity.

Differences between the Su-28 and its parent Su-25UB model include the absence of targeting systems, weapon-operating systems, internal guns, wing pylons (used on military aircraft to mount weaponry such as bombs and missiles). It also lacks armor protection for the engines, advanced fly-by-wire controls, electronic countermeasures and any systems dedicated to ground attack operations.

Specifications (Su-28)

General characteristics

* Crew: two
* Length: 15.36 m (50 ft 5 inch)
* Wingspan: 14.36 m (47 ft 1 in)
* Height: 4.80 m (15 ft 9 in)
* Wing area: 33.70 m² (362.7 ft²)
* Loaded weight: 12000 kg (26,455 lb)
* Max takeoff weight: 17222 kg (37,968 lb)
* Powerplant: 2× TRD R-95Sh , 40 kN (4100 kgf) each
* * Fuel capacity (internal) : 2750 kg
* Fuel capacity (external) : 4 x 1150 kg drop tanks

Performance

* Maximum speed: 950 km/h (590 mph)
* Range: 1050 km (652 miles)
* Service ceiling 7000 m (22,966 ft)
* Maximum g limit : 6 g (60 m/s²)