ADDIS ABABA, — Ethiopia has taken delivery of its first 12 Russian-made Su-35 4++ generation fighter jets under an agreement between the two governments. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the delivery on Wednesday, adding that the country will also receive four batteries of the S-400 air defense system from Russia.
The aircraft arrived a year ahead of the originally agreed schedule. Abiy thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for expediting the delivery, describing the acquisition as an important step in strengthening Ethiopia's national defense and security.
In his announcement, the prime minister stated that Ethiopia had received the first 12 Su-35 fighters in accordance with its preliminary agreement with the Russian government. He also confirmed the planned delivery of four S-400 air defense batteries.
Abiy said the acquisition would improve the readiness of Ethiopia's armed forces, support the country's sovereignty, and strengthen its ability to deter potential aggression. He also described the new aircraft as a significant upgrade to Ethiopia's combat aviation capabilities, placing the country among the leading nations in sub-Saharan Africa in modern military aviation.
Su-35 and S-400 Strengthen Ethiopia's Military Capabilities
The Su-35 is a multirole fighter designed for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The aircraft features advanced radar, high maneuverability, and the ability to perform a range of combat operations.
The new fighters represent a major upgrade for the Ethiopian Air Force, which has previously operated older Soviet-era aircraft, including the Su-27.
The planned acquisition of four S-400 air defense system batteries will further strengthen Ethiopia's air defense capabilities. The Russian-made long-range surface-to-air missile system is designed to detect, track, and engage aircraft and certain missile threats.
The government has not disclosed the total financial value of the defense agreement, the overall number of Su-35 aircraft ordered, or the delivery schedule for the S-400 systems. The locations where the new aircraft and air defense systems will be stationed also remain undisclosed.
Russian state-owned defense conglomerate Rostec, which manages Russian arms exports, has not issued a public comment on the reported delivery.
Delivery Comes Amid Regional Security Challenges
The acquisition comes as Ethiopia faces continuing domestic and regional security challenges. Renewed fighting in the northern Tigray region has added pressure on government forces, while relations with neighboring Eritrea have deteriorated.
Addis Ababa has accused Eritrea of supporting rebel forces involved in the renewed conflict, further straining relations between the two countries.
The Su-35 and S-400 acquisitions form part of broader defense cooperation between Ethiopia and Russia. The delivery is expected to strengthen Ethiopia's combat aviation and air defense capabilities as the country continues to address its security challenges.
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