The Russian government delivered two of six Su-30 fighter jets ordered by Myanmar. The shipment was completed last March but was only disclosed recently, The Irrawaddy reported.
The Su-30s are currently stationed at a hangar in central Naypyitaw, where forces could cover northern to southern regions of Myanmar.
Russian technicians and trainers were also deployed alongside the Su-30 units to assist the Myanmar Air Force during the vehicles’ warranty period, sources told the Myanmar-based news website.
Russia-Myanmar Relations
During a visit to Myanmar in February 2021, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu pledged to provide air defense systems and vehicles to the country.
The Su-30 deal was signed during Shoygu’s visit to the Asian nation in 2018.
At the time, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin said the units “will become the main fighter aircraft of Myanmar’s air force to protect the country’s territorial integrity and repel any terror threats,” according to a report by Moscow-based TASS.