Some airplanes become true legends in their own lifetime and one such aircraft to which this statement certainly applies to is the Sukhoi Su-27 (NATO Code: FLANKER). Hardly any other aircraft combines such an aggressive design, brute power and phenomenal maneuverability as this mighty Russian fighter. It’s also hard to believe that the first prototype Su-27 made its maiden flight over 40 years ago!  Reason enough to take a closer look at the development and history of this fascinating aircraft!