Russian Su-35s Begin Using New К-77М Air-to-Air Missiles

Russian Su-35 fighter jets have begun using the new K-77M long-range air-to-air missile.

A photo showing a Su-35 armed with the missile was posted by OSINT analysts on the social platform X.

In addition, the Ukrainian Telegram channel “Colonel GSh” published an image of debris consistent with K-77M missile fragments, suggesting the weapon has already been used in combat.

However, based on the published photo of the aircraft, only one of the four medium-range air-to-air missiles mounted on the Su-35 can be identified as the K-77M.

Two others appear to be R-77 or R-77-1 variants, while the fourth is obscured by the landing gear. This may indicate that production volumes of the K-77M remain limited.

K-77M

The K-77M (also known as “Izdeliye 180”) was developed by the JSC “State Design Bureau ‘Vympel’ named after II Toropov, part of the Tactical Missiles Company. It is an upgraded version of the R-77-1 medium-range missile.

Unlike the R-77-1, which uses lattice fins, the K-77M features conventional aerodynamic control surfaces and redesigned stabilizers, likely to allow internal carriage aboard the Su-57 fighter. The missile is reportedly powered by a dual-pulse solid-fuel motor, increasing its nominal maximum range from 110 km (R-77-1) to 190 km.

If the diagrams published by the Ukrainian Telegram channel “Vodohray” are true, then the K-77M is longer than the R-77-1 — approximately 4,000 mm compared to 3,710 mm — indicating a larger propulsion unit and extended range.

A detailed explanation of why the missile’s nominal maximum range differs significantly from its effective range can be found in our special report, “AIM-120 Missile: Real Capabilities and Myths.” (in Ukrainian)

The missile is believed to use an active radar seeker based on AESA (active electronically scanned array) technology, which would offer better target acquisition, improved selectivity, and greater resistance to jamming. However, some sources claim it retains a conventional monopulse radar seeker.

Development of the K-77M began no later than 2012. It was first shown publicly at the Army-2019 defense expo. In October 2020, the missile was spotted on a prototype Su-57 during flight tests.

In June 2022, Russian state media reported that the K-77M had passed comprehensive testing and would soon enter service.

In May 2025, U.S. intelligence warned that Russia was fielding a new air-to-air missile capable of carrying a tactical nuclear warhead, designed to intercept targets at long range.