The dynamics of sliding electric arc discharge and the formation of shock waves in the stages of leader motion and the electric arc development in a supersonic air flow behind the shock wave have been studied for an initial pressure of 0.09–0.5 atm (bar). The air flow in the discharge was imaged using an optical system comprising a shadow device (IAB-458), an optical interference attachment (RP-452), and a modified ruby laser (OGM-20) producing 10–15 output pulses per pumping pulse. Stable initiation of sliding electric arc discharge takes place in a supersonic air flow behind the shock waves with 1.7<M<3.4. This discharge produces shock waves leading to separation of the boundary layer and to an increase in the pressure at the surface. These shock waves can be used for modifying gasdynamics in the air flow streamlining the surface and for controlling the motion of an aircraft.