Will Vietnam's Su-30MK2s be equipped with Kh-59MK2 cruise missiles?
Russia has just released a video showing a Su-57 test-firing a Kh-59MK2 missile in Syria, reportedly to showcase the capabilities of both weapons.
On May 26, the Russian Ministry of Defense released a video showing a Su-57 stealth fighter test-firing a Kh-59MK2 air-to-ground cruise missile during its deployment in Syria.
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| The Russian Kh-59MK2 air-to-ground cruise missile. |
The Kh-59MK2 missile is compared to the American AGM-158 JASSM, both being long-range air defense attack weapons thanks to their long range and design with surfaces that are very good at scattering radar waves.
The future form of warfare is predicted to be aircraft carrying long-range attack missiles, replacing cruise missiles launched from warships, due to their superior maneuverability and ability to penetrate enemy air defenses much more effectively.
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| A Su-30MK2 fighter jet of the Vietnamese Air Force. |
In addition to serving in the Russian Air Force, Moscow also makes no secret of its intention to boost exports of these weapons to the global market, focusing on partners who are already using fighter jets manufactured by them.
This is an excellent suggestion for the Vietnamese Air Force, as we currently lack a superior air-to-ground cruise missile. Although the export version of the Kh-59MK2 has reduced its range from 550 km to 290 km, it is still more than sufficient for our needs.
According to the Russian Sputnik website, Vietnam has now equipped its Su-30MK2 fighter jets with the "sibling" of the Kh-59MK2, which is the anti-ship version, the Kh-59MK.
Based on the experience gained from operating the Kh-59MK, it is entirely possible that Vietnam will order more Kh-59MK2s in the future to give its main fighter jet comprehensive anti-ship and ground attack capabilities.
