A progressive development of the Su-27 possessing genuine dual-role capability was initiated in 1988 as the Su-27M. Five aircraft were assigned to the programme, each intended to test individual features proposed for the definitive fighter, which, in 1992, was assigned the designation Su-35 by the Sukhoi OKB. Features evaluated by the Su-27M and to be combined in the new fighter include all moving foreplanes, digital flight control system in place of the analogue system of the standard Su-27, four multi function cockpit displays instead of dial type analogue instruments, an inclined (30-deg) pilot ejection seat and retractable flight refuelling probe. Lyulka AL-31FM turbofans with 29,320 lb st (13,300 kgp) afterburning ratings are standardised and trust vectoring is proposed for the definitve series Su-35. The multi-fuction radar offers a ground mapping/attack mode, and, in the air-to-air mode, can track-while-scan eight targets simultaneously. Wingtip stations can carry either short-range AAM's or ESM pods, and typical air- to-air armament comprises a mix of R-73 dogfight missiles with radar-guided R-26ER and IR- guided R-27ET medium-range missiles distributed between three stations beneath each wing, individual engine duct stations and tandem fuselage stations able to carry up to 17,635 lb (8,000 kg) of ordnance. At the beginning of 1994, it was anticipated that the Su-35 would be procured for the air force of the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States), and enter service in 1995-1996. The visual differences from basic Su-27:
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