Moscow, October 29 – Ethiopia has boosted its air force with twelve Su-35SE multirole fighters from Russia. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the early delivery during the Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow on October 28, 2026, stating the aircraft arrived a year ahead of schedule thanks to President Vladimir Putin’s support. The Zhukovsky Airport handover featured Ethiopian-marked jets, providing a major upgrade for the Ethiopian Air Force amid regional security challenges.
These Su-35SE fighters originated from Egypt’s 2018 order, later canceled under US pressure over CAATSA sanctions threats. After Iran abandoned its acquisition plans, Algeria purchased some airframes, and the remaining twelve were redirected to Ethiopia. Serial numbers such as 2551 and 2552 on the delivered jets confirm their connection to the former Egyptian contract.
Ethiopia also received an Ilyushin Il-78M-90 heavy tanker aircraft to extend the Su-35SE operational range. This aerial refueling capability enables deep-strike missions across Africa, with potential reach as far as Egypt, thereby enhancing the Ethiopian Air Force’s strategic reach and deterrence posture in the Horn of Africa.
Combined with planned S-400 systems, the advanced Su-35 fighters and Il-78 tanker strengthen Ethiopia’s ability to counter internal and external threats. As Russia deepens military cooperation across Africa, this deal highlights shifting arms trade dynamics and raises concerns among neighboring countries regarding regional power balances.