The Su-24 (NATO reporting name: 'Fencer') is a Soviet frontline bomber. Following the introduction of the Su-7B fighter-bomber in the early 1960s, the Sukhoi Design Bureau was tasked with creating an all-weather version of the aircraft. However, developing it based on the Su-7 proved impossible, so the bureau began designing a new aircraft. The project underwent numerous changes during development: the aircraft concept was revised; the pilots were seated side by side instead of in tandem; and a variable-sweep wing similar to that on the American F-111 was installed. In 1975, the new frontline bomber, designated the Su-24, was accepted into service.

Almost immediately, work on modernising the aircraft began. The main goal was to improve target engagement accuracy using the latest weapons and navigation systems. The upgraded aircraft's strike capabilities included new missiles with semi-active laser guidance (Kh-25 and Kh-29L), guided bombs (KAB-500L and KAB-1500L) and R-60M air-to-air missiles. The aircraft was also equipped with new onboard defence and targeting-navigation systems. The modernised aircraft, designated the Su-24M, entered service in 1983. Modernisation continued, and in June 2000 a more advanced variant, the Su-24M2, featuring upgraded avionics, navigation systems, radar and compatibility with modern weapons.

The Su-24M was introduced in Update 2.39 "Dance of Dragons". Despite its large size and weight, the aircraft handles well in the air thanks to its pair of powerful engines and a swing wing. The Su-24M can carry up to 8,000 kg of payload on eight hardpoints under the fuselage and wings, including guided bombs with laser, TV, or satellite guidance, as well as various air-to-surface missiles. Its built-in six-barrel GSh-6-23M cannon, with a rate of fire of up to 9,000 rounds per minute, and its highly sensitive, but otherwise capable R-60M missiles are especially effective in air combat. Drawbacks of the Su-24M include limited maneuverability and the absence of a thermal imager in the targeting pod.