Iran Bolsters Military Capabilities with Russian Su-35 Fighter Jets Amid Rising Regional Tensions
The acquisition of the Su-35s follows a broader strategic partnership agreement signed between Iran and Russia in early January 2025.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Iran has reportedly acquired advanced Russian-made Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, further solidifying military ties between Tehran and Moscow. The deal, which has raised concerns among Western powers, comes amid growing geopolitical tensions in the region, The Eurasian Times reported.
Ali Shadmani, the deputy coordinator of Iran’s Khatam-ol-Anbia Central Headquarters, confirmed the acquisition but did not disclose the number of jets purchased or whether deliveries had begun. “Whenever necessary, we make military purchases to strengthen our air, land, and naval forces. The production of military equipment has also accelerated,” Shadmani stated.
The acquisition of the Su-35s follows a broader strategic partnership agreement signed between Iran and Russia in early January 2025. While the agreement did not explicitly mention arms transfers, it emphasized deepening “military-technical cooperation” between the two nations. The deal is seen as a response to increasing geopolitical pressure on both countries, with Russia embroiled in the Ukraine conflict and Iran facing mounting U.S. sanctions.
Tehran’s air force, currently equipped with aging U.S. F-14 fighter jets acquired before the 1979 Islamic Revolution and older Russian aircraft, has long sought to modernize its fleet. The introduction of the Su-35s marks a significant upgrade in Iran’s aerial combat capabilities.
The Sukhoi Su-35, a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter, is one of Russia’s most advanced combat aircraft. Originally developed as an enhancement of the Su-27 platform, the Su-35 boasts cutting-edge technology, including the N035 Irbis-E radar, which can track multiple targets at a range of up to 400 kilometers. The aircraft is also equipped with thrust-vectoring engines, enabling high maneuverability and limited super cruise capability.
The Su-35’s armament includes air-to-air missiles with a range of up to 300 kilometers, the Oniks anti-ship cruise missile, and a variety of air-to-ground weaponry, making it a formidable addition to Iran’s arsenal.
Iran’s military modernization efforts, including the acquisition of Su-35 fighter jets, indicate a shift in regional military dynamics. However, with continued Western sanctions and Israel’s technological superiority, the impact of these jets on Tehran’s overall military strategy remains to be seen.
