Iran Procures Russian Sukhoi-35 Fighter Jets: Senior Official
A senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) official revealed that Iran has proceeded with its planned purchase of Russia’s Sukhoi-35 fighter jets, underscoring the growing relations between the two countries.
Ali Shadmani, deputy coordinator of the IRGC’s Khatam-ol-Anbia Central Headquarters, told state-affiliated Student News Network that the acquisition is intended to enhance Iran’s air, land, and naval forces amid rising regional tensions.
“If the enemy acts foolishly, it will taste the bitter taste of being hit by our missiles,” he warned. “And none of its interests in the occupied territories will remain safe,” referring to Israel.
Shadmani did not specify how many Sukhoi-35 jets have been ordered or if they have already been delivered to Iran.
Iran first announced its intention to purchase the Russian jets in 2022, with officials claiming that Moscow was willing to sell the aircraft.
About the Su-35
Dubbed by NATO as the “Flanker-E” or “Super Flanker,” the Sukhoi-35 (Su-35) is widely regarded as a “marvel” of Russian aerospace engineering.
Equipped with the Irbis-E radar, it can reportedly detect and track up to 30 targets simultaneously, with ranges extending to 400 kilometers (248 miles).
The aircraft is also capable of carrying a variety of air-to-air, air-to-surface, and precision-guided munitions, depending on mission needs.
The Su-35 is expected to replace Iran’s aging fleet of F-14 Tomcat jets, which were originally delivered by the US in the 1970s when the two countries were still allies.
Su-35s have been deployed in Ukraine, aiding Russian forces in targeting enemy positions. In April 2022, an Su-35 was reportedly downed in the Kharkiv region.
Growing Military Cooperation
The sale of Russian jets to Iran aligns with the recent signing of a “comprehensive strategic partnership” agreement between the two nations.
The agreement is expected to strengthen their “military-political” and “trade-economic” ties, particularly as both countries face heavy international sanctions.
Tehran has previously acknowledged supplying Moscow with Shahed drones, which are being used to target Ukrainian positions.