Iran may soon receive its long-awaited Su-35 Flanker fighter jets from Russia, possibly as soon as next week, according to reports in Iranian state-run media. The delivery would be significant as it comes at a time of heightened tensions between Iran and Israel. It is believed that Iran is expecting at least 24 fighters in total, although last summer reports suggested they had ordered and paid for 50. There have been previous claims that Iran received some Su-35s last year but did not receive the necessary electronic and spare parts to utilize them fully.
There is no visual confirmation that Iran has taken delivery of any Su-35s, but there have been reports of a full-scale Su-35 mockup outside an underground Iranian airbase. Iran recently received Yak-130 jet trainers from Russia, indicating that the Su-35s could soon follow. If the reports of the Su-35s arriving next week are accurate, it would demonstrate that Russia is fulfilling its contract despite regional tensions and highlight the strong military ties between the two countries. Iran has been on edge following recent strikes by Israel on Iranian targets, including the killing of several Iranian officers in an airstrike.
After Israel’s recent precision strike in Isfahan, Iran downplayed the attack, suggesting that the quadcopter drones used were not a significant threat. However, satellite imagery revealed damage to an Iranian air defense system, showing Israel’s capability to target sophisticated Iranian defenses. Iran has warned of a maximum level response to any further action by Israel. The timely delivery of Su-35s to Iran following the Isfahan strike could be a significant propaganda victory for Tehran, showcasing the strengthening of its air defenses in the face of threats from Israel.
If the delivery of Su-35s does occur, it will have limitations on enhancing Iran’s air defense capabilities and upgrading its aging air force. Despite the potential acquisition of new fighter jets, Iran’s current air force is still reliant on vintage F-14 Tomcats. The delivery of Su-35s would be a rare acquisition for Iran after many years of international sanctions. It remains to be seen how Iran will deploy and use these new fighters to defend its airspace against potential threats. The ongoing tensions in the region make the arrival of the Su-35s a critical development in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.
