Iran boosts air power with purchase of Russian Su‑35 jets
According to Ali Szadmani, a high-ranking commander of the Revolutionary Guard, Iran has decided to purchase Russian Su-35 fighter jets. These are the most modern multirole aircraft produced in Russia, which have faced significant challenges in attracting a large number of customers in recent years.
"The production of military equipment has accelerated, and outdated systems are being withdrawn and replaced with modern and upgraded ones. We purchase military equipment to strengthen our forces whenever necessary," Szadmani told Iranian state media.
Iran bought Su-35 fighter jets
As noted by Reuters, the Iranian official did not disclose how many aircraft were involved in the transaction with Russia. It is also unclear whether the Su-35 fighters (or some of them) have already been delivered.
The Su-35 is Russia's most modern serially produced multirole aircraft. However, as reported by Karolina Modzelewska, a journalist from Wirtualna Polska, even though Russia actively promoted its fighters by highlighting their successes during the war in Ukraine, buyers have not increased. For a long time, the only confirmed foreign user of the Su-35 was China. There had been long-standing speculation about Iran's interest in these aircraft, but only now has their purchase been officially confirmed.
Russia's most modern serially produced multirole aircraft
The twin-engine multirole fighter, known as the Su-35, measures over 69 feet in length and has a wingspan of about 49 feet. It is designed to combat air targets as well as engage objects on the ground and at sea.
Its basic armament includes a GSz-30 anti-aircraft gun of 30 mm caliber. Additionally, there are 12 pylons available for carrying suspended armaments, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles or bombs from the FAB family. Russians claim the Su-35 reaches up to 1,550 mph and can operate at altitudes of up to 65,616 feet.
Close cooperation between Russia and Iran
In mid-January this year, the governments of Iran and Russia signed a strategic partnership agreement. It did not include provisions for arms deliveries, but the document stipulates that the countries will develop military cooperation. Iran has previously been considered one of Russia's biggest allies. It is one of the countries supplying equipment used by Putin's army in Ukraine.
