The Su-7 aircraft was created as a result of a 1953 USSR Council of Ministers resolution ordering the development of a new front-line fighter. The MiG-21 won that competition, and the Su-7 served as the basis for developing a fighter-bomber capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons, being the counterpart of the American F-100 C/D Super Sabre and F-105 Thunderchief aircraft.
The prototype, designated Su-7B, first flew in 1959, and entered service in 1961. It was a troublesome design, causing many technical problems. In 1962, the Su-7BM version was developed with increased range through the capability of carrying additional external fuel tanks, an improved engine and avionics.
In 1964, Poland purchased 6 Su-7BM aircraft designated for carrying nuclear weapons, which marked the beginning of plans to increase the offensive capabilities of the Warsaw Pact in the event of war.
| Wingspan | 9.30 m |
| Length | 16.6 m (without pitot tube) |
| Takeoff weight | 11 730 kg |
| Maximum speed | 2150 km/h |
| Ceiling | 18 500 m |
| Range | 1450 km |
| Armament | 2 NR-30 cannons cal. 30 mm, 2000 kg of underwing ordnance (bombs, unguided rocket launchers) |
| Engine | AL-7F1-150 turbojet with thrust (with afterburner) of 9600 kG |
