FSX Russian Sukhoi Su-27B Update

Seasoned virtual aviators who enjoy pushing Mikoyan‑Gurevich hardware to its limits will appreciate this refined “Flanker” package. Created originally by Bill Wolfgen and now painstakingly re‑tuned by Bob Chicilo, this freeware update for Microsoft Flight Simulator X injects fresh flight physics, revised effects, and a purpose‑built 2‑D cockpit into the existing SU27RUSS.ZIP release—while still remaining light on system overhead.

Key Modifications Introduced in This Revision

• Re‑authored .air profile – Control‑law tables and stability derivatives have been re‑drawn to reflect the Su‑27B’s high‑alpha authority, elevated roll rate, and 9 g structural ceiling.
• Added forth wheel assembly – The nose gear now models the real‑world twin‑wheel bogie, improving stance and braking feel during carrier‑style recoveries.
• Dedicated 2‑D flight deck – A streamlined panel gives IFR‑capable reference instruments, Russian‑style AoA indexer, and a functioning RWR repeater. (No virtual cockpit is provided.)
• Customised particle system – Afterburner plumes and soot trails have been recalibrated; fuel‑rich AB stages now light at the correct throttle detent.

Installation Workflow

1. Extract the archive to a temporary directory.
2. Backup the original Aircraft.cfg, .air file, and Panel folder from your SU27RUSS aircraft directory.
3. Drop the updated files in place, overwriting when prompted.
4. Move the supplied .fx files into your simulator’s global Effects folder.
5. Copy the included high‑resolution reference images into the aircraft’s root directory—they are used by the kneeboard system.
6. If missing, relocate all default .cab (gauge) archives from any stock aircraft panel into ..\Gauges; some may appear as standard .zip containers.

Operating Notes & Performance Envelope

Pilots will find the type capable of sustained 400 km/h post‑stall manoeuvres, cobra entries at 110–120 kts, and a climb rate exceeding 55,000 ft/min under mil‑spec ISA conditions. Reference values for V_LOF, V_APP, and V_FE are published inside the [Reference Speeds] section of the configuration file for quick consultation.

Redistribution Conditions

Non‑commercial use

No part of this upgrade may be sold, rented, or placed behind a paywall.

Community spirit

Re‑package or tweak freely, provided credit remains intact and no harm is done to fellow simmers.

Sukhoi Su‑27B: Real‑World Context

The single‑seat Su‑27B (NATO reporting name “Flanker B”) emerged in the late 1980s as the Soviet answer to Western air‑superiority icons such as the F‑15C Eagle. Powered by twin AL‑31F turbofans, the platform delivers a thrust‑to‑weight ratio in excess of 1.03 at combat load, enabling signature manoeuvres like the Pugachev Cobra and the “Bell.” Russian Knights demonstration pilots routinely exploit these traits during low‑level displays—behaviour now mirrored more faithfully in this update.

Credits

Original model and texture work: Bill Wolfgen  |  Flight‑model overhaul, panel integration, and effect scripting: Bob Chicilo.