Russia's military maneuvers: MiG‑35 headlines Peru expo
Russia is set to participate in the International Defense Technology Exhibition SITDEF 2025 in Lima, Peru, where it will showcase its advanced military equipment. The lineup includes the MiG-35 fighter jet, the T-90MS tank, and the Pantsir-S1M air defense system.
On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Rosoboronexport, the Russian state arms export agency, announced its plans for the exhibition in Lima, taking place from April 24 to 27. As noted by the Bulgarian Military, introducing the MiG-35 in Peru—a country that leans towards Western platforms like the Swedish Gripen—is a strategic move by Russia.
Russian ambitions in Latin America
This exhibition may be an effort by Russia to regain influence in a region traditionally considered to be within the United States' sphere of influence. Peru has a long history of military cooperation with Russia, dating back to Soviet times. The country still operates over 100 Russian-made helicopters, including the Mi-8 and Mi-17, making it the largest importer of Russian rotorcraft in Latin America, as noted by the Bulgarian Military.
As Peru plans to modernize its national air force, it has recently focused on Western options such as the Saab Gripen, a light and versatile fighter jet that aligns with NATO standards. Interest in the Gripen has surged worldwide, partly due to concerns about U.S. F-35 fighters and their potential grounding by the Trump administration.
MiG-35 as an alternative to Western fighters
The MiG-35 offers advanced avionics and exceptional maneuverability at a competitive price compared to its Western counterparts. However, the fighter jet has yet to secure significant export orders, raising doubts about its future in the international market. Despite its attractive features, Russia faces challenges such as U.S. sanctions, which might deter potential buyers. Additionally, Latin American countries often prefer Western systems, making it challenging for Russia to secure new contracts.
The MiG-35 is a Russian fourth-generation multirole fighter jet, sometimes referred to as generation 4++. This designation implies that the aircraft meets the standards of fifth-generation fighters, albeit not formally classified as such. Developed by the MiG design bureau as an evolution of the MiG-29M/M2 and MiG-29K/KUB models, it was officially presented in 2017, aiming to offer a competitive, modern, and economical solution for the Russian Air Force and export clients.
The MiG-35 can reach a top speed exceeding 1,490 mph (approximately 2.25 Ma), and its combat range with an additional fuel tank is up to 1,243 miles. The aircraft is designed with high maneuverability in mind, thanks in part to the thrust vectoring in the RD-33MK engines and an advanced control system. Its take-off weight is 54,013 lbs, and it has a weapon payload capacity of about 14,330 lbs, capable of carrying a wide range of weapons.
The MiG-35 can be equipped with medium-range R-77 air-to-air missiles, short-range R-73 missiles, and various bombs and air-to-surface guided missiles, including the Kh-38, Kh-29T, KAB-500, and KAB-1500 bombs. It can also carry precision-guided munitions using laser and satellite guidance.
The aircraft features the AESA Zhuk-A radar, which enables it to track up to 30 targets simultaneously and engage up to six of them. It also includes an integrated OLS-UEM electro-optical system for detecting infrared targets and an OLS-K system for ground observation. Additionally, the MiG-35 employs electronic warfare systems, including a modern suite of passive and active protection.
