How do you compare a huge export success with an airplane the Russians cant even give away?
I only compared the SU34 to the F111 and A6 in terms of a2a combat ability, something the Fullback is far superior to either of those planes from the same category of medium strike at, even though it isn't its primary function.
I compared the F15E to the F111/A6, as there are very critical munitions that the F15E can't drop that the F111 could.
I don't think anyone would argue the Su34 is superior to the F15E in any way, other than perhaps load capacity, and even that is arguable depending on where you read those stats from. The F15E however is inferior to what the F111 could do in terms of loadout and range. The US seems to have abandoned the whole medium strike concept, while the Russians Su34 is sort of a pseudo medium striker, as the F15E can lift nearly as much, and go further with that load, and has far better weapons/systems, as well as probably being as good in the a2a arena if not better, although there are many who disagree with that on other forums. Eagl would probably have a good idea on this point.
The Fullback is an incredible aircraft in its own right though IMO, considering how big it is, it's very maneuverable, something that still does matter even today. It just proves that the Soviets/Russians still build...odd things that often turn out to function adequately. There really is only one other a/c in the world that can be considered at least close to a medium striker that is designed to be able to "self escort" if need be. At least until the J20 is in service.
