Last updated: February 27, 2026
✈️ Aircraft Specifications
| Designation | Su-17M4 |
| Manufacturer | Sukhoi |
| Country of Origin | Soviet Union |
| First Flight | 1966 |
| Length | 19.02 m (62.4 ft) |
| Max Speed (Mach) | 1.7 |
| Max Speed (km/h) | 1,860 km/h |
| Service Ceiling | 15,200 m (49,871 ft) |
| Range | 2,300 km (1,428 mi) |
| Engine | 1× Lyulka AL-21F-3 afterburning turbojet |
| Crew | 1 |
| Status | Retired |
Overview
The Sukhoi Su-17 (NATO: Fitter, export variants Su-20/Su-22) was a variable-sweep wing fighter-bomber developed from the fixed-wing Su-7. It was the first Soviet variable-geometry aircraft to enter service and one of the most widely exported Soviet combat aircraft.
Design & Development
The Su-17’s key innovation was its variable-sweep outer wing panels — the inboard sections remained fixed while the outer portions could sweep from 30° to 63°. This dramatically improved takeoff and landing performance compared to the Su-7 while maintaining high-speed capability. The design was simpler and cheaper than the MiG-23’s full variable-sweep wing.
Operational History
The Su-17 entered Soviet service in 1970 and was produced in large numbers through 1990. Export variants (Su-20 and Su-22) were sold to over 15 countries and saw extensive combat in conflicts including the Iran-Iraq War, Soviet-Afghan War, Libya, Yemen, and Syria. Some Su-22s remain in service today.
Capabilities
- Variable-sweep wings (30° to 63°)
- Mach 2.09 top speed
- 8 external weapons pylons
- Laser rangefinder (later variants)
- Improved field performance over Su-7
Armament & Weapons
- 2× NR-30 30mm cannons
- Air-to-Ground: Kh-25, Kh-29, S-24/25 rockets, FAB bombs
- Air-to-Air: R-60 (AA-8) self-defense missiles
- 4,000 kg total external load
Video
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Su-17, Su-20, and Su-22?
Su-17 was for Soviet use, Su-20 was a downgraded export version, and Su-22 was a further export variant with a different engine.
Is the Su-17 still in service?
Yes, several countries still operate Su-22 variants, including Poland (recently retired), Vietnam, and Syria.
What was special about its wing design?
It was the first Soviet variable-sweep wing aircraft, but unlike the MiG-23, only the outer wing panels moved — a simpler, more reliable solution.
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