The Sukhoi Su-30SM is one of the few operational multirole fighters equipped with thrust-vectoring technology, giving it exceptional maneuverability far beyond conventional fourth-generation fighters.
Powered by two Saturn AL-31FP afterburning turbofan engines, the Su-30SM features 2D thrust-vectoring nozzles that can deflect up to ±15 degrees. Unlike standard jet engines, these movable nozzles redirect engine thrust during flight, allowing the aircraft to maintain control even at extremely high angles of attack where traditional control surfaces become less effective.
Working together with its digital fly-by-wire flight control system and aerodynamic canards, thrust vectoring enables the Su-30SM to perform dramatic post-stall maneuvers such as the Pugachev's Cobra, Kulbit, Herbst Maneuver, and high-alpha turns. These maneuvers can provide a tactical advantage during close-range dogfights by rapidly changing the aircraft's nose position without relying solely on aerodynamic lift.
Unlike dedicated airshow demonstrations, the Su-30SM's thrust-vectoring system was designed for real combat applications, improving agility, controllability at low speeds, and recovery from extreme flight attitudes while carrying combat payloads.
JUST IN: 🇺🇸🇩🇪🇬🇧🇮🇷 US Unleashes More F-35s and F-16s Toward the Middle East as Iran Crisis Deepens
The United States is reinforcing its airpower with F-35 stealth fighters from RAF Lakenheath (UK) and F-16 Fighting Falcons from Spangdahlem Air Base (Germany) deploying to the Middle East.
The move would significantly expand America's frontline combat capability in the region, signaling Washington is positioning more high end tactical aircraft as tensions with Iran continue to escalate.
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds launch a formation of F-16 Fighting Falcons during a practice flight for the Freedom 250 celebration on July 3, 2026.
The 89th Airlift Wing provided airfield operations and ground support for visiting military demonstration teams operating in the National Capital Region.
These Blue Angel Pilots have the skillset to fly a few feet apart inverted from another Blue Angel, while performing a loop at 700mph,
I’m sure they have the skillset to safely perform a low level beach flyover.
Cessna T-50 Bobcat N69072, notable for its inclusion in Richard Bach's A Gift of Wings, returned to AirVenture this past summer, its first visit to Oshkosh since 1989. I didn't see it this year #Oshkosh#Airplane
🌍✈️Around the World ✈️🌍
The Seattle II World Cruiser replica will be featured alongside other icons of early aviation in the Pioneers of Flight display in the Vintage aircraft area at #OSH26!
If you asked me to name one of the wildest aircraft NASA ever flew, the Northrop M2-F2 would be near the top of the list. No wings. Just a lifting body shaped to create lift with the fuselage itself. It was a crazy idea that paving the way for the Space Shuttle decades later.