Ethiopia acquires 12 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia

Ethiopia has formally acquired 12 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia, a move intended to significantly bolster the nation's air defense capabilities. The announcement was made as Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attended the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow. This acquisition comes at a critical time for the East African nation, which remains embroiled in a persistent conflict in its northern Tigray region bordering Eritrea.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed characterized the delivery of the advanced Russian aircraft as a "milestone" for Ethiopia’s national security. The Su-35 is a highly maneuverable, multi-role fighter designed to provide air superiority and perform ground strikes. By integrating these jets into its arsenal, the Ethiopian Air Force aims to modernize its aging fleet and provide a stronger deterrent against internal and external security threats.

The timing of this procurement is particularly significant given the ongoing hostilities in the Tigray region. The addition of modern air assets is expected to enhance the government's tactical reach in areas that have seen intense fighting over the past years. Furthermore, the deal highlights the deepening bilateral relations and defense cooperation between Addis Ababa and Moscow during a period of shifting global alliances.

While the acquisition strengthens Ethiopia's military posture, it also underscores the government's focus on technological superiority in its regional strategy. As Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed secures this more sophisticated hardware, the international community continues to monitor the impact of such military upgrades on the stability of the Horn of Africa. The deployment of these Su-35 jets marks a major step in the federal government's efforts to consolidate its military presence across its volatile borders.