SU-24MR Fencer-E

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The Su-24MR is the tactical reconnaissance version of the Fencer, in service from 1983. The attack radar and bombing computer were stripped out and replaced with a sensor package: a side looking airborne radar in the nose flanks, panoramic and oblique cameras, an infrared line scanner, and a data link that sends imagery back while the aircraft is still airborne. It keeps the variable geometry wing and the side by side crew seating of the bomber, but carries only self defence missiles. On MCS the MR is a scouting platform for organised teams. It runs a fast, low pass over hostile territory, records what is there and gets the picture back to the people who will act on it, which is far more useful than another bomb load when nobody knows where the enemy is. It cannot fight and it cannot hide. Recommended for squads that plan before they attack.