Russia Completes First Batch of Su-35 Fighter Jets for Iran, Deliveries Set for 2026

MOSCOW – Russia has reportedly completed the first batch of 20 Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets ordered by Iran, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026. The development marks a significant step in Tehran’s military modernization program and is expected to substantially strengthen the country’s aging air force.

According to Military Watch Magazine, the aircraft were produced at the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Plant in Russia. The jets are currently being stored in Russia, while maintenance costs are being covered by Iran’s Ministry of Defense until the official handover takes place.

The report supports previously leaked Russian defense industry documents from late 2025, which revealed that 16 Su-35 fighters had already entered production for Iran. Separate Russian government documents also indicated that Tehran has ordered a total of 48 Su-35 fighter jets, making it Iran’s largest combat aircraft purchase in more than three decades.

The Su-35 acquisition is part of a broader defense cooperation agreement signed between Russia and Iran in 2023. The deal also includes Mil Mi-28 attack helicopters and Yakovlev Yak-130 advanced trainer aircraft. Deliveries of the Yak-130 began in September 2023 and are widely believed to be preparing Iranian pilots for future Su-35 operations.

Su-35 Fighter Jet Brings Long-Range Combat Capability

The Sukhoi Su-35 is a 4++ generation multirole fighter aircraft capable of carrying out both air superiority and ground attack missions. With a combat radius of nearly 1,600 kilometers, the aircraft enables long-range strike operations while maintaining high maneuverability.

Powered by thrust-vectoring engines, the Su-35 is renowned for its exceptional agility in aerial combat. It is also equipped with an advanced radar system that significantly improves target detection compared to the earlier Su-27 platform.

Although it lacks the stealth technology of fifth-generation aircraft such as the U.S.-made F-35, defense analysts continue to regard the Su-35 as one of Russia’s most capable non-stealth fighter jets.

The Russian Aerospace Forces have operated the Su-35 since 2014, and the aircraft continues to play an important role in Russia’s military operations, including the war in Ukraine.

Russia Expands Production to Meet Iran’s Order

Russia has traditionally produced around 14 Su-35 fighter jets per year, but production capacity is now being expanded.

United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) Director General Vadim Badekha announced in May 2025 that manufacturing facilities were being upgraded to increase output. Reports suggest the expansion will allow Russia to fulfill Iran’s large order, although deliveries intended for the Russian Air Force could reportedly be delayed by two to three years as Tehran’s contract receives priority.

Russian defense sources also claim Iran has ordered 12 Su-30SM2 fighter jets, with deliveries expected to begin in mid-2027.

In addition, several reports indicate that Iran has expressed interest in purchasing the Su-57, Russia’s fifth-generation stealth fighter. However, any potential delivery is unlikely before 2030 because of limited production capacity.

Iran Air Force Modernization Enters New Phase

For decades, Iran has relied on aging combat aircraft, including the F-14 Tomcat, F-4 Phantom II, F-5 Tiger II, and MiG-29, many of which have remained in service despite growing maintenance challenges caused by long-standing international sanctions.

Military analysts believe the arrival of the Su-35 fleet will represent the most significant modernization of Iran’s air force in decades, enhancing the country’s air defense capabilities while extending its operational reach across the Middle East.

However, reports suggest the first deliveries could still face delays if infrastructure upgrades at Hamadan Air Base are not completed before the aircraft arrive.