500th test flight for Russian fighter

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MOSCOW, April 5 (UPI) -- Sukhoi's Su-35S stealth fighter, being built for the Russian air force, has completed a 500th test flight for evaluation of equipment and maneuverability.

The multi-role aircraft reached the maximum ground-level speed of 869 miles per hour, speed at altitude of 1,491 mph and an altitude of about 59,000 feet, the company said.

"The detection range of targets in the 'air-to-air' mode is over 248 miles," Sukhoi said. "This is significantly higher than that of the combat aircraft currently in service.

"The onboard optical locator station can detect and track multiple targets at ranges exceeding 49 miles. The aircraft complex is ready to undergo tests for combat use."

The company said the aircraft's capabilities surpass those of other tactical fighters, including the Rafale, F-15, F-16, F-18 and F-35.

Russia's Ministry of Defense ordered 48 of the planes, which are to be delivered by 2015.

The fourth production aircraft was delivered for testing by state authorities last month.