It was the mid 1950's when the Russian National Aerodynamic Research Center (TAGI) requested that Sukhoi
produce a delta winged fighter design. In response, Sukhoi produced the T-3 prototype. A variety of configurations for the single
turbojet intake located in the aircraft's nose were considered. A circular intake was the preferred design. It would also hold the aircraft's
all-weather radar in its center. The first flight of the prototype was on June 24, 1956.
The first production Sukhoi Su-9, named Fishpot by NATO, was assembled in 1958 and deployed by 1959. Soon
Su-9 fighters joined Soviet air defense squadrons equipped with four K-5 air-to-air "Alkai" radar guided missiles each. These early missiles had a very low succes rate of finding their targets, especially at longer ranges. A pair
of external fuel tanks carried on the bottom center line of the aircraft helped increase the limited range of the fighters.
A two seat training variant of the aircraft was also produced, designated the Su-9U. It was equipped with missiles and
had separate displays for the student and instructor to enable combat training. About 50 Sukhoi Su-9U aircraft were built.
On July 14, 1959 a modified version of the Sukhoi Su-9, designated the T-431, set an altitude record of 94,659 feet.
Sukhoi Su-9 aircraft were deployed through the early 1980's. Thereafter, retired aircraft were converted for use as target drones.
A total of about 1,150 Sukhoi Su-9 aircraft were produced.
Sukhoi Su-9
