A Look Inside the Gear Powering a Ukrainian SU-27 Pilot’s Top Missions

Ukrainian pilots have demonstrated exceptional results. In December 2024, a Ukrainian pilot on an F-16 set a record by shooting down six Russian cruise missiles during a single mission using medium-range missiles and aircraft cannons.

Su-27s, equipped with American GBU-39 glide bombs, successfully conduct precision strikes on key military targets, such as pontoon bridges and command posts, increasing strike accuracy at long distances while minimizing risks to the aircraft.

A Ukrainian Su-27 pilot’s success begins long before the aircraft takes off. As Andrii, call sign ‘Hooligan,’ explained during his interview to ArmyTV, every piece of gear plays a vital role in ensuring mission success and the pilot’s safety under demanding conditions.

The UNITED24 Media team broke down the ArmyTV interview to explain the essentials of pilot gear and its importance in modern air combat.

The helmet—where functionality meets art

The pilot’s helmet is far more than just head protection. For Andrii, it also embodies a personal connection to his squadron. His helmet is adorned with a custom design, featuring the emblem of the 39th Brigade, also known as the ‘Forest Brothers.’ While the artwork showcases individuality, its primary purpose remains functional: providing communication capabilities and shielding the pilot during high-speed maneuvers and ejections.

The helmet is equipped with an integrated oxygen mask that supplies pure oxygen during high-G  maneuvers. This feature is critical for maintaining consciousness and combat readiness when the body is subjected to extreme physical stress.

Anti-G suit—endurance under extreme conditions

One of the most critical pieces of equipment is the anti-G suit. During combat, Su-27 pilots experience intense gravitational forces that can cause blood to rush away from the brain, risking loss of consciousness. The anti-G suit inflates during high-G maneuvers, compressing the pilot’s legs and abdomen to keep blood circulation stable. This allows pilots to remain alert and effective during intense aerial engagements.

Personal survival kit—prepared for the unexpected

Every Su-27 is equipped with a survival kit designed to support the pilot in case of ejection. From inflatable life rafts with water-activated sensors to signal mirrors and emergency rations, the kit ensures that pilots can survive and signal for rescue even in hostile or remote environments.

Andrii highlighted the importance of redundancy in navigation systems. Besides the aircraft’s advanced navigation suite, pilots use personal devices like GPS units and customized tablets to ensure precise mission execution, even in environments with disrupted communications.

Balancing safety and efficiency

Unlike ground troops, fighter pilots do not wear body armor during missions. Andrii explained that the added weight would increase the risk of spinal injuries during ejection. Instead, the focus is on lightweight, purpose-built equipment that ensures mobility and safety without compromising performance.

Personal weapons—essential for safety

Each pilot carries personal weapons as part of their standard equipment. For Andrii, this includes a 9mm Beretta pistol, accompanied by multiple magazines. While the weapon is not intended for prolonged combat, it provides a critical self-defense option in case of ejection over hostile territory. Andrii emphasized that having a personal firearm offers a sense of security, even if its use is a last resort. Unlike heavier weapons, such as rifles, the lightweight pistol minimizes additional weight, reducing strain during ejection and preserving the pilot’s mobility.

Underlining the role of advanced equipment in modern air combat, pilots like Andrii demonstrate how meticulous preparation and effective tools contribute to operational success. From customized helmets to redundant navigation systems, each component is selected to meet the demands of complex missions.

Continued collaboration with international allies and technological advancements ensure that Ukrainian Su-27 pilots remain equipped to execute their objectives effectively and efficiently.