We all LOVE the SU-27 as the most remarkable Russian fighter jet, and we mostly favor the 2-seater variant, the SU-27 UB, for its beautiful lines and unbeatable flight capabilities. That said, with minor adjustments, you can build the SU-30 variant, offering a wider array of color schemes. We offer the necessary parts for both variants, including various fins and distinctive components. Optionally, we also offer canards, vector thrust, or single-engine conversions...
The CARF-Models SU-27/SU-30 started as a project by a few modelers and was based on a handmade plug. When CARF-Models got their hands on it, they developed all the technical solutions and made production molds. It is no secret that we struggled with the landing gear for many years. It's more complex than anyone would think, especially if you want to keep scale wheel sizes and door geometries. Finally, we cut ties with all gear manufacturers and approached the problem by designing it all ourselves, based on Electron ER-50 NG components. Because today’s jet turbines are so reliable, the twin-engine configuration is no longer a challenge for even a less experienced pilot, and over time, we also created a single-engine conversion that works remarkably well. We designed vector-thrust systems for it and built a canard fuselage. Today, the SU-27 has a history of being worked on quite a bit, but with results and technical solutions so good that it is now simply one of the best planes ever created.
All parts are composite, fully detailed, painted in the molds, and fully functional in all respects of scale. Because of the complexity, we offer an ARF-Plus service with retractable landing gear, gear door mechanisms, fuel tanks, and thrust tubes already installed. In our opinion, the ONLY way to go is to offer the best value for money. We also offer a special scale paint service we call hot section art. Try it yourself once, and you'll know it's a great investment to have us do it. Combine it with stencil application, flat clear coating, and weathering, and you have a stunning example of aviation history, right from the factory, perfectly made to order.
The basic ARF kit's components are highly prefabricated and, of course, fully functional at all scales. Everything is composite, mold-painted, and highly detailed. Leading-edge slats, flaps, and speed brake doors are ready to hinge. The canopy frame is installed and movable. All control surfaces are attached, control horns are installed, linkages and servo mounts are prepared, and gear mounts are ready for the CNC-milled landing gear to drop in. The fuselage's internal structure is quite complex and therefore had to be engineered carefully. Highlights include the taileron mechanics and linkages, engine and duct mounting, rotating main gear installation, and complex gear door functionality. It has also been a challenge to add enough longitudinal strength to that long, thin fuselage with minimal weight penalty. Due to the gear complexity, we recommend that anyone go with our ARF-Plus service and order the landing gear readily installed - it will save you headaches and guarantee success from day one.
The SU-27's landing gear is a beautiful replica of the full-size gear. That, however, isn't as simple a design as it may seem. The gear is swiveling forward when retracting, so the axis of rotation is all over the place, but 90 degrees. To accomplish this with a regular electron gear unit (NG units are used in this case), the angles of the gear plate and the gear unit itself must be precisely aligned. This has proven difficult for any modeler to do properly, so we recommend the ARF-Plus package, where the gear comes perfectly installed and aligned in the plane. Gear doors are simple and operated by 15 mm mini-servos.
The impressive size, with a 2.2 m wingspan and 3.2 m length, will still result in an aircraft just below the 25 kg limit, powered by 2 100-120 N engines. However, with dual vector thrust tubes, the engine size might go up considerably to 160-180N; the added weight will not allow building the plane below 25 kg (55 lb). For our USA customers, no problem; in Europe, one has to choose carefully which way to go. Optionally, we offer a single-engine conversion, and we know that it's hard to believe: the open-mounted single engine is not noticeable at all on the ground or in flight... and the performance with a single 210-220N engine is stunning!
The weathering and hot section of the SU-27 UB/SU-30 are key areas where scale realism truly shines above its standards. Advanced painting techniques, airbrushing, and the work of highly skilled modelers replicate the heat, grime, and operational wear seen on the full-scale SU-27. These details not only enhance the model's visual appeal but also make it look like a true veteran of the skies.
We offer an extremely high-quality assembly service, delivering an ARF+ or ready-to-fly PNP model – including complete servo and wiring installation, electric retractable landing gear, and a pre-installed fuel tank. You can also install the cockpit, lighting system, thrust tube, and afterburner system. With the PNP version, final assembly takes just a few hours… A scale jet like our big SU-27 UB / SU-30 has never been easier to get airborne! At the same time, the pictures show what your model can look like once you’ve completed the build – a true masterpiece in both looks and engineering.
For our SU-27 UB / SU-30, we offer a wide range of accessories. These include electric retractable landing gear, fuel tanks, a scale cockpit, a lighting set, a thrust tube, and an optional UAT. In addition, we offer high-quality MacGregor servos in combination with our very own CARF-Models servo arms – perfectly matched to the model and the demands of a high-performance scale jet.
Like all our airplanes, the SU-27 UB / SU-30 is no different. They boast meticulously applied PU paintwork, expertly executed in the molds. Explore a gallery of our stunning scale paint schemes, showcasing past projects, some crafted to match unique customer requests. If you're seeking a personalized touch, we offer color swaps and fully custom designs developed through collaboration between you and our skilled artists. Below are a few standout examples:
The CARF SU-27's remarkable flying performance reflects its meticulous design and engineering. Its aerodynamic profile, coupled with powerful turbine engines, enables dynamic maneuvers such as high-speed passes, tight turns, and smooth aerobatics with remarkable ease and precision. The aircraft's stability and responsiveness allow you to confidently explore its flight envelope, from graceful gliding to aggressive aerobatics, while its robust construction ensures reliability and durability even during high-stress maneuvers. Compared to other SU27/30s on the market, this plane stands out for its lightweight design. The low wing loading makes every maneuver easy to execute, and you see and feel it in every fight. Goosebumps. Even though it's not needed for an impressive air show performance, a thrust-vectoring system will make it a real animal. High-alpha passes, tumbles, and spins, all the way to true hovering and torque rolling, become possible; only you, as the pilot, will be the limiting factor. It's a thrilling experience. Get prepared for more goosebumps...
The CARF-Models SU27, a marvel in model aviation, stands as a testament to precision and performance in my fleet. Having built three of these impressive jets, two of which feature advanced thrust vectoring, they've become the highlight of every jet event I've attended. All topped off with a stunning factory-applied weathering and hot section painting by CARF exemplifies unparalleled visual appeal.
Elad Fish, USA (Sales Rep & Teampilot)
An incredible scale jet that is as maneuverable as any sport jet. It’s a very intimidating airplane due to its complex gear system and twin turbines, but it couldn’t be any easier to fly.
Jordan Factor, USA (Team Pilot)
My longstanding experience with the Carf Models SU-27 has been nothing short of exceptional over the years. From the first flight to countless sorties, the durability, precision, and consistent performance of this model have continually exceeded my expectations. The Factory finish of the ucrain airforce is a joy to watch in the air or on static.
Frank Westerholt, Germany (Team Pilot)
The SU30 is one of the best looking jets out there. And the flying characteristics are just amazing. With 2x 142N engines and thrust vectoring it is the ultimate fun machine. The hovering is extemely stable and it is very maneuverable. Landing is super easy as it allows a very high angle of attack without stalling.
Lars Rößling, Germany
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68" (2200 mm) |
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126" (3200 mm) |
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50 - 53 lb (23 - 24 kg) |
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2x 100 - 140N |
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11 - 13 high-power digital servos |
