Sukhoi Su-11

Sukhoi
Industry	Aerospace, Defense
Founded	1939
Headquarters	Moscow, Soviet Union

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The Sukhoi Su-11 (designated by NATO as Fishpot-C) served as an interceptor aircraft operated by the Soviet Union throughout the Cold War period.

Design and development

The Su-11 represented an enhanced iteration of the Sukhoi Su-9 ('Fishpot') interceptor, which was developed concurrently with the OKB’s swept-wing Su-7 fighter-bomber. Identifying the inherent shortcomings of the Su-9, Sukhoi initiated development of the Su-11, with its maiden flight occurring in 1961 under the prototype designation T-47.

Retaining key features from the Su-9, such as the delta wing, swept tailplanes, and streamlined fuselage with a circular air intake at the nose, the Su-11 incorporated a lengthened nose section to house the advanced 'Oryol' (Eagle; NATO codename 'Skip Spin') radar system. It was powered by an upgraded Lyulka AL-7F-1 turbojet engine, delivering an additional 9.8 kN (2,210 lbf) of afterburner thrust that enhanced climb rates and high-altitude performance while offsetting increased airframe weight. A distinguishing characteristic of the Su-11 compared to its predecessor is the presence of external fuel lines mounted atop the fuselage behind the cockpit.

The earlier beam-riding K-5 missiles were replaced with a pair of more advanced R-98 (AA-3 'Anab') missiles, typically comprising one R-98MR with semi-active radar homing and one R-98MT infrared-guided missile. Consistent with many interceptors from this era, it did not carry any onboard cannon armament.

Production of the final Su-11 variant, designated Su-11-8M, commenced in 1962 and concluded by 1965, resulting in approximately 108 units manufactured. It is also believed that certain Su-9 airframes underwent modernization to meet Su-11 standards.

A two-seat trainer model known as the Su-11U 'Maiden' was developed as well; resembling the Su-9U, it featured complete armament and radar capabilities for instructional purposes. However, due to the addition of a second cockpit reducing its already limited fuel reserves, this variant was not intended for combat deployment.

Operational history

Delays caused by developmental challenges and accidents postponed introduction into service with the Soviet Air Force (VVS) and Soviet Air Defence Forces (PVO) until 1964, resulting in only a limited number of aircraft being delivered.

Despite possessing improved radar technology, the Su-11 relied heavily on ground control interception (GCI) to guide pilots toward targets. Its inability to engage low-altitude threats remained a significant limitation. The Sukhoi design bureau regarded the Su-11 as an unsuccessful project, considerably less capable than the substantially more advanced Su-15 ('Flagon'). Nonetheless, some units continued operational duties into the early 1980s. The final withdrawal from frontline service occurred around 1983.

Operators

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Soviet Air Defence Forces

Specifications (Su-11)

File:Sukhoi Su-11.png

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References

External links

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