Russia trades fighter jets for Myanmar's symbolic elephants
The Bulgarian Military service reports an unusual transaction between Russia and Myanmar (formerly Burma). As part of a diplomatic gesture coinciding with the delivery of six Sukhoi Su-30SME fighter jets, Myanmar was to present six elephants to the Kremlin—one for each jet.
The elephants were intended as a symbol of goodwill between the countries, aligning with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Myanmar, according to the Bulgarian Military. Although the transfer of elephants appears to be a symbolic gesture, some reports suggest that the animals may also be part of the funding agreement for the six Su-30SME aircraft.
"Elephant diplomacy"
Radio France Internationale reports that the transaction involved five female and one male Indian elephants, transported from Myanmar to the Moscow State Circus by a Russian transport aircraft. According to reports, the animals were taken from their natural environment.
It is difficult to definitively determine whether the reports of "exchanging" elephants for Russian fighter jets are accurate. However, it is known that Russia and Myanmar engage in military cooperation. In 2018, Myanmar signed an agreement to purchase Sukhoi Su-30SME fighters valued at approximately $400 million. The first two aircraft were delivered in March 2022 and officially entered service on December 15 of the same year. Two more were delivered in 2023, with the final two arriving in December 2024, completing the contract.
Russian Su-30SME fighter jets
The Su-30SME fighters are the export version of the Russian Su-30SM multirole aircraft, designed for international customers. It features a two-seater configuration, which enhances operational efficiency by dividing tasks between the pilot and the weapons operator. The aircraft's airframe is constructed with a canard layout, ensuring good maneuverability even at high angles of attack. The design incorporates composite materials and lightweight metal alloys, reducing the aircraft's weight and improving its performance and durability.
The Su-30SME is powered by two AL-31FP engines with thrust vectoring, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of over 1,300 mph, twice the speed of sound. The aircraft's range is approximately 1,860 miles but can be extended with in-flight refueling capabilities. The maximum operational ceiling for the Su-30SME is around 56,800 feet.
A key feature of this aircraft is the Bars-R radar with a passive phased array antenna, enabling the simultaneous detection of multiple air and ground targets. This system is compatible with a wide range of armaments, including advanced air-to-air missiles such as the R-77 and R-27, as well as air-to-ground missiles like the Kh-29 and Kh-59, and guided bombs. The fighter can carry up to 18,000 pounds of weaponry on 12 hardpoints, with its primary armament being a 30 mm GSh-30-1 automatic cannon.
