Iran will purchase 48 Russian Su-35 fighter jets.

Iran – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) – Following a conflict with Israel that revealed weaknesses in its aging military, Iran is reportedly taking a major step to modernize its air force. According to detailed reports, Iran may acquire dozens of advanced Russian Su-35 fighter jets.

This potential deal, which surfaced through leaked documents, could significantly upgrade Iran’s aerial capabilities and marks a notable expansion of military ties between Tehran and Moscow.

Leaked files point to Iran purchasing 48 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia in a deal valued at approximately $686 million. The documents, allegedly from Russia’s state defense conglomerate, Rostec, were released online by a hacker group called Black Mirror. While the authenticity of the leak is still unverified, the information aligns with previous reports of defense negotiations between the two countries.

If the agreement proceeds, deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled to occur in phases, with the first jets potentially arriving as early as 2026 and the final batch by 2028. The deal is said to include advanced electronic warfare systems designed to protect the aircraft from enemy radar and missiles.

This potential acquisition comes at a critical time for both nations and could reshape regional military dynamics.

• For Iran: The recent conflict with Israel exposed the severe limitations of Iran’s air force, which relies on aircraft from the Vietnam War era. Acquiring modern Su-35s would be transformative, greatly enhancing its ability to defend its airspace and deter future attacks.
• For Russia: This deal would represent one of its largest arms exports since the invasion of Ukraine. With Western sanctions causing a dramatic drop in Russian arms shipments, contracts with countries like Iran have become vital for sustaining Moscow’s defense industry.

The Su-35 is a twin-engine, multirole fighter jet with thrust-vectoring engines for exceptional agility. It is equipped with a powerful radar capable of tracking multiple targets and can carry a large payload of missiles and bombs, making it a competitor to modern Western fighter jets.

The possible jet deal highlights the deepening of the strategic partnership between Iran and Russia, two heavily sanctioned states. This military cooperation is part of a broader alignment, cemented by the recent Iranian-Russian Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Reports suggest that in exchange for military hardware, Iran has provided Russia with drone technology for use in Ukraine.

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While neither Tehran nor Moscow has officially confirmed the Su-35 agreement, if proven true, it would mark a new phase in their cooperation and potentially alter the balance of air power in the Middle East.