[null, {"document_url": "https://money.cnn.com/gallery/news/2017/06/16/paris-air-show-history-military-planes/2.html", "unformatted_src": "https://i2.cdn.turner.com/money/dam/assets/170531133544-1989-paris-air-show-sukhoi-su27-780x439.jpg", "src": "https://i2.cdn.turner.com/money/dam/assets/170531133544-1989-paris-air-show-sukhoi-su27-780x439.jpg", "formatted_filename": "paris air show sukhoi su", "alt_text": "1989 paris air show sukhoi su27", "rendered_width": 780, "rendered_height": 439}, null]


1989: The amazing Sukhoi Su-27
 The debut of the Soviet Sukhoi Su-27 -- NATO codename 'Flanker' -- at the Paris Air Show in 1989 was highly anticipated.

The sophisticated design of this twin-engine fighter was so successful it spawned variations, including a two-seater and a jet for aircraft carriers and a fearsome fighter-bomber.

The Flankers' amazing dogfighting capabilities matched the maneuverability of the U.S. F-15 Eagle. It also boasted the Soviet military's first operational production fly-by-wire system, meaning the jet's flight controls were moved with electronic commands not mechanical links.

First published June 16, 2017: 5:33 PM ET




Don't miss: Paris Air Show

