Top 20 Russian Bombers and Fighter Jets in 2025: From Aging Beasts to a New Generation

In this updated top 20 list, we review the most significant Russian bombers and fighter aircraft in active service as of June 2025.
This list is based on open sources such as FlightGlobal World Air Forces 2024, 247wallst.com, The Aviationist, Wikipedia, and reporting from United24Media, RUSI, and Reuters.

All numbers are estimates that consider combat losses and recent deliveries. The aircraft are ranked from least to most effective and significant within their roles — from tactical bombers to long-range strategic platforms.

#20: Mikoyan MiG-35 “Fulcrum-F” – Limited Advanced Lightweight Fighter

Only about six MiG-35s are in operational service, making it the least common jet on this list. On paper, it’s a modernized MiG-29 with advanced radar and sensors, but the project has seen little traction. It is mainly used for testing and export promotion — with little impact on combat operations.

#19: Sukhoi Su-30M2 – Trainer Fighter with Combat Capability

The Su-30M2 is a simpler, two-seat version of the Su-30SM, mainly serving as a trainer and for adversary simulation. Russia operates about 20 of them, occasionally used for patrol duties. While weapon-capable, its combat role is secondary.

#18: Sukhoi Su-33 “Flanker-D” – Aging Carrier-Based Fighter

Designed for aircraft carrier operations, the Su-33’s role is limited due to the Admiral Kuznetsov being under repair. Fewer than 20 are still airworthy, mostly used for land-based training and without major upgrades in recent years.

#17: Mikoyan MiG-29K/KUB “Fulcrum-D” – Naval Multirole Fighter

Intended as the Navy’s future primary fighter, the MiG-29K’s real power is limited, with only 22 in service, mostly operating from land. However, its modern sensors and multirole capability — including air-to-air and anti-ship missions — give it an edge over the Su-33.

#16: Mikoyan MiG-31K “Foxhound” – Hypersonic Missile Carrier

Only around 10 MiG-31K jets are active. This variant is adapted to fire the hypersonic Kinzhal missile and has been used in the Ukraine conflict. Its ability to deliver high-speed kinetic weapons is unique, but limited use and numbers keep it low on the list.

#15: Sukhoi Su-27/Su-27SM “Flanker-B” – Classic Air Superiority

One of the oldest active Russian fighter types. Around 100 Su-27s, including upgraded SM versions, remain in service, mostly in remote regions. While still in use, they are gradually being phased out in favor of newer Su-35s and Su-30s.

#14: Mikoyan MiG-31BM/BSM “Foxhound” – High-Speed Interceptor

The MiG-31BM is among the fastest jets in the world, designed to cover vast Russian distances. An estimated 120–130 are in service. As a long-range interceptor with advanced radar and R-37M missiles, it is particularly important in the Arctic and Siberia.

#13: Sukhoi Su-30SM/SM2 “Flanker-C” – Versatile Two-Seat Fighter

The Su-30SM and upgraded SM2 serve as a flexible part of the Russian Air Force. Over 110 are operational. They are used for both air defense and ground attack, with naval variants for maritime roles — making it one of the most utilized multirole platforms.

#12: Sukhoi Su-24M “Fencer” – Veteran Tactical Bomber

Despite being dated, around 260 Su-24s remain in service, many in reserve. Used in Syria and Ukraine, these jets operate under both the Air Force and Navy. With variable geometry wings and precision weapon delivery, they remain tactically relevant.

#11: Mikoyan MiG-29 “Fulcrum” – Lightweight Combat Veteran

About 250–260 MiG-29s are still active, including upgraded SMT variants with improved radar and range. Mainly used in air defense and training, the MiG-29 has taken a backseat to newer Sukhoi platforms in frontline roles.

#10: Sukhoi Su-25 “Frogfoot” – Russia’s A-10

With approximately 175 in service — including upgraded SM3 versions — the Su-25 is heavily used for close air support, especially in Ukraine. Its armor and rugged design make it ideal for frontline combat and rocket strikes, despite being vulnerable to modern air defenses.

#9: Tupolev Tu-22M3 “Backfire-C” – Powerful Medium Bomber

About 52 Tu-22M3 bombers remain after recent combat losses. This supersonic platform is used in both strategic and maritime strike roles, capable of carrying Kh-22/Kh-32 missiles. It has seen extensive use in Syria and Ukraine.

#8: Sukhoi Su-30SM2 – Modernized Multirole Platform

The newest Su-30SM2 features Su-35 engines and upgraded avionics. Recent deliveries have strengthened both the Air Force and Navy, which now operate over 110 Su-30SM variants. Its adaptability and newer tech put it ahead of older Su-27s and MiG-29s.

#7: Sukhoi Su-34 “Fullback” – Tactical Bomber with Range

With an estimated 130–150 in service, the twin-seat Su-34 has led frontline roles in Syria and Ukraine. Despite losses, deliveries of the newer Su-34M keep the fleet active. Its long range and payload make it a key tactical strike platform.

#6: Sukhoi Su-35S “Flanker-E” – Backbone of Air Superiority

Russia’s primary 4.5-generation fighter, with 110–120 units in service. The Su-35S features advanced radar, thrust-vectoring, and long-range missiles. Combining agility with firepower, it is a frontline air defense workhorse.

#5: Tupolev Tu-95MS “Bear” – The Iconic Turboprop Bomber

The classic Tu-95MS, with its four turboprop engines and iconic roar, still has about 47 airworthy units. Despite its age, upgrades have kept it viable as a cruise missile carrier (Kh-101) in Russia’s strategic arsenal.

#4: Sukhoi Su-57 “Felon” – Russia’s Stealth Fighter

With only 20–25 Su-57s in operation and more on the way, this 5th-gen stealth fighter has been used in missile strikes from Russian airspace. Its advanced tech and low observability make it a critical future investment, though limited in current numbers.

#3: Tupolev Tu-160 “Blackjack” – Supersonic Strategic Bomber

Just 15 Tu-160s are active, but they are Russia’s most advanced strategic bombers, capable of launching both nuclear and conventional cruise missiles. The modernized Tu-160M program is ongoing, with these jets forming the flagship of the strategic bomber fleet.

#2: Sukhoi Su-34M – The Upgraded Fullback with Precision

The latest Su-34M variants come with enhanced sensors and precision-guided weapons. With combat-proven survivability from Ukraine and improved strike capability, they are now Russia’s most reliable tactical bombers. Its range, payload, and avionics make it a frontline leader.

#1: Sukhoi Su-35SM2 – The Ultimate Multirole Fighter

The latest and most advanced Su-35SM2 (an evolution of the Su-35S and Su-30SM2) integrates upgraded radar, weapon systems, and network-centric warfare capabilities. These jets are forming the core of Russia’s modern air defense and offensive capability. With a growing fleet and proven performance, it stands as Russia’s most capable and balanced combat aircraft to date.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.