According to a Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber pilot, recent changes have occurred in the weaponry used during the ongoing special operation. Since 2023, the primary weapon has shifted to planning and correction modules (UMPK), which have proven to be more effective against infantry and fortified positions. The pilot emphasized that UMPK are not only far cheaper than traditional guided missiles but also nearly immune to electronic warfare (EW) systems, making them highly efficient.

The Su-34 aircraft, too, has undergone significant changes since the beginning of the special military operation. The pilot shared that factory representatives regularly visit the units, communicate with the pilots, and based on their feedback, quickly implement improvements in the aircraft’s systems and capabilities.

He further noted that the difference between the Su-34 planes they receive now and those they had before the war is striking. In his words, the difference between the basic Su-34 and its upgraded version is as vast as the difference between a «Zaporozhets» and a «Mercedes».

Additionally, changes have been made in the strike control system. The pilot recalled that earlier, there were difficulties with command transmission, leading to long approval processes for strikes on targets identified during flight. However, now the process has become significantly faster, improving overall efficiency.

In terms of tactics, the pilot described the formation of a tactical aviation group (TAGr), which includes bombers performing strike missions and escorting fighters that protect them. The bombers target the first enemy echelon, while the fighters focus on neutralizing enemy air defense systems when detected.