Why is the Su-35 Tough for Patriot Missiles to Hit?

Not all aircraft are built for the same kind of fight. When facing a modern air defense system, some jets are like nimble boxers, dodging and weaving with incredible agility. Others, while powerful, might be more like brawlers, tough and effective, but not as quick to slip a punch. This difference in strengths can make a world of difference when it comes to surviving a sophisticated missile attack. Take the Su-34 and Su-35 case, for example. Both are Russian jets that trace their roots back to the legendary Soviet Su-27. At first glance, these machines might seem like twins from the same hangar. But recent events, like the one reported by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense on March 2nd 2024, have shown a surprising difference in how well they handle threats like the advanced Patriot surface-to-air missile. The report details Ukrainian air defenses taking aim at two Russian aircraft with anti-aircraft missiles. While they claim to have shot down a Su-34 bomber, the Su-35 fighter managed to completely evade the Patriot system. This stark difference in fate makes us wonder: How could one aircraft handle a Patriot missile better than the other, despite sharing a common lineage?