Russian Su-35S Fighter Forces Ukrainian F-16 and Mirage Jets to Fly at Low Altitudes Over Conflict Zone

Russian Su-35S Fighter Forces Ukrainian F-16 and Mirage Jets to Fly at Low Altitudes Over Conflict Zone

Russian Su-35S fighter jets have reportedly forced Ukrainian F-16s and Mirage aircraft to fly at unusually low altitudes inside their own rear positions, according to Sergey Chemezov, CEO of Rostec.

The move is said to limit the operational freedom of these Western-made jets during ongoing operations.

Chemezov described the Su-35S as a potent tool in controlling the airspace: “The Su-35S pushed enemy aircraft to the ground, forcing them to fly at extremely low altitudes in their own rear.

It often strikes targets at maximum distances — hundreds of kilometers.”


Limiting Western Jets’ Effectiveness

By compelling Ukrainian jets to operate close to the ground, the Su-35S reportedly prevents them from reaching optimal positions to launch air-to-air missiles.

Chemezov also claimed that under such pressure, Ukrainian air defense systems are sustaining heavy losses.

“In skilled hands, the Su-35S performs miracles,” he said.

“For us, it matters that Russian pilots hold this aircraft in high regard.”


New Delivery Boosts Russian Airpower

Earlier this month, on November 1, the Russian Defense Ministry received a fresh batch of Su-35S fighters following ground and flight testing.

Russian Aerospace Forces pilots praised the aircraft for its reliability, noting that it “proved itself as a dependable aviation system capable of handling nearly any task assigned to operational-tactical aviation during the special military operation.”

The new deliveries reinforce Russia’s operational capabilities, adding to the growing fleet of Su-35S jets actively involved in conflict zones.


Su-35S Praised Domestically and Abroad

Rostec has repeatedly emphasized the Su-35S as one of the world’s most effective fighters, pointing to its record of neutralizing enemy assets across multiple theaters.

The corporation describes the aircraft as a versatile “universal soldier” capable of engaging targets throughout the conflict zone.

Outside Russia, analysts have also taken note.

Brandon Weichert, a columnist for The National Interest, highlighted the Su-35S as a 4++ generation fighter and regarded it as the most capable combat aircraft in the Russian Aerospace Forces.


The Strategic Impact

The combination of advanced range, maneuverability, and tactical deployment reportedly allows the Su-35S to dominate the skies over contested areas.

By forcing enemy aircraft into low-altitude operations, it limits both offensive options and the effectiveness of air defense systems, according to Russian sources.

With new deliveries reinforcing the fleet, Rostec and the Russian military present the Su-35S as a key asset in ongoing operations and a symbol of their aerial capabilities.

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