Russian Aerospace Defense Forces will get 20 Su-35S fighter jets of the 4++ generation by the end of 2020, Deputy Defense Minister Alexey Krivoruchko said on Wednesday during his visit to the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Plant, TASS news agency reported.

 “The plant is following the plan with Su-35 manufacturing, and we expect to get several aircraft even ahead of time this year. In accordance with the current contract, we expect another 20 Su-35S fighter jets this year and next year,” Krivoruchko said.

He noted that the aircraft plant works on modernizing this type of fighter jet, including on the basis of the Syrian combat experience. In particular, next modernized versions of Su-35S will be able to use all types of air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles.

Earlier, Krivoruchko said Russian Aerospace Force will also get 30 additional Kamov Ka-52 ‘Alligator’ combat helicopters by 2022.

The Russian defense official made this statement as he visited the Progress Aviation Enterprise, the producer of Ka-52 gunships.

 “Today the factory is fulfilling a long-term contract for the delivery of Ka-52 reconnaissance and attack helicopters. By 2022, we expect to get additional 30 helicopters, including eight rotorcraft by the end of this year,” the Deputy Defense Minister said. 

The Ka-52 ‘Alligator’ reconnaissance/attack helicopter is designed to destroy tanks, armored and non-armored vehicles, manpower, rotorcraft and other enemy aircraft on the frontline and in the tactical depth, in any weather conditions and at any time. 

The ‘Alligator’ is furnished with modern avionics while its coaxial rotor system and enhanced longitudinal control enable it to effectively maneuver and perform complex aerobatic operations.

 Besides, the Ka-52 features the radio-electronic protection system and low signature devices that reduce, dissipate and distort the engines’ thermal trace. It also has active countermeasures capabilities.