Iran to Get First Su-35 Fighters from Russia Amid Tensions

Iran is on the verge of receiving its first shipment of Su-35 Flanker fighter jets from Russia, as reported by Iran’s state-run media. The delivery, scheduled for next week, could not come at a more critical time, with tensions between Iran and Israel at their peak. The exact number of fighters in this initial shipment remains undisclosed, but it is widely speculated that Iran’s order could include up to 24 Su-35s in total.

Last summer, an Iranian journalist revealed that Iran had placed an order for 50 Su-35s back in 2021. However, the ongoing war in Ukraine has raised doubts about Russia’s ability to deliver such a large number in the near future. Despite these challenges, Russia appears committed to fulfilling its contract with Iran, as evidenced by the impending delivery.

Reports from Iranian media also referenced a previous claim by Kuwait’s Al-Jarida newspaper, suggesting that Iran had already received some Su-35s last year. However, these aircraft reportedly lacked adequate electronics and parts, limiting their operational capabilities to short-range missions and training exercises. Russia allegedly withheld these critical components under pressure from Israel and Arab Gulf countries.

The delivery of the Su-35s would signify a deepening of military ties between Iran and Russia, which have strengthened significantly since 2022. This move comes in the wake of escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, sparked by the killing of several Iranian Revolutionary Guard officers in an Israeli airstrike in Damascus.

Iran retaliated on April 13 with a massive barrage of drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles aimed at Israel. The majority of these projectiles were intercepted by Israeli air defenses and a coalition of U.S.-led allied states. In response, Israel conducted a precision strike in Isfahan, targeting an Iranian S-300PMU-2 air defense missile system.

Despite downplaying the impact of the strike, Iran’s Foreign Minister highlighted the need for immediate and maximum-level response to any further Israeli actions against Iranian interests. The timely delivery of the Su-35s could serve as a significant propaganda victory for Iran, showcasing its strengthened air defense capabilities in the face of external threats.

However, even with the delivery of the Su-35s, Iran’s air defense capabilities will still face significant limitations. The country’s air force relies heavily on aging F-14 Tomcats, highlighting the need for further modernization and enhancement of its air defense systems.