Report: Assessment of Myanmar Air Force’s Su-30SME Fighter Aircraft in Combat Readiness and Operational Viability

Reading Time: 4 minutes Introduction The Myanmar Air Force (MAF) operates a fleet of 6 Su-30SME fighter aircraft, which are derived from the Russian Su-30 family of multirole, twin-engine fighters. These aircraft are intended to provide Myanmar with advanced air combat capabilities, including air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance. However, an assessment of the Su-30SME fleet’s combat readiness, operational availability, and its adequacy for full-scale military operations is necessary to understand its actual contribution to the Myanmar Air Force’s capabilities. This report evaluates the operational readiness of these aircraft, considering maintenance practices, logistical challenges, and technical factors, and assesses their effectiveness in the context of a large military conflict. The Su-30SME: Capabilities and Role The Su-30SME is a variant of the Su-30 fighter aircraft developed by Sukhoi for export customers. It is equipped with advanced avionics, powerful radar systems, and precision-guided weapons, allowing it to perform a wide range of