Su-35S Fighter Jets Delivery to Russian Aerospace Forces
**The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has officially delivered the inaugural batch of Su-35S fighter jets to the Russian Aerospace Forces in 2023.** This significant event was highlighted in a press release from Rostec, the state-owned corporation in Russia, which confirmed the successful transfer of these advanced aircraft. The Su-35S jets are categorized as 4++ generation fighters, representing a vital addition to the combat capabilities of the Russian military as they gear up for operational deployment in 2025.
Each of the delivered jets underwent rigorous factory testing before being accepted for service. Following this initial phase, pilots from the Russian Ministry of Defense conducted extensive evaluations in various operational scenarios. Ultimately, the jets have been dispatched to their designated air bases, ready to enhance the operational readiness of the Russian Aerospace Forces.
Comments from Rostec Leadership
Vladimir Artyakov, the Deputy General Director of Rostec, expressed confidence in the delivery process, stating, “Our aircraft manufacturers are diligently fulfilling their obligations to supply new aircraft to the units. This year marks the first batch of series production fighter jets delivered, with new aviation systems being prepared to meet this year’s state defense orders.” His remarks underscore the commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the Russian military.
Artyakov further emphasized the superior attributes of the Su-35S jets, which are outfitted with cutting-edge weaponry and long-range targeting systems. He noted that these fighter jets are designed to achieve air superiority under both favorable and adverse weather conditions, enabling them to effectively engage ground and surface targets at all hours. This capability positions them as essential assets for a wide range of military operations.
Increased Production Plans for Fighter Jets
Further commenting on the production of military aircraft, UAC General Director Vadim Badekha announced an upcoming increase in fighter jet production this year. He stated, “Our primary task is to increase the production rate of in-demand military products, particularly the Su-34, Su-35, and Su-57 aircraft.” This expansion reflects a strategic response to growing military needs.
Badekha confirmed that plans for increasing production volumes of these aircraft models are already in place. The emphasis on ramping up output aims to ensure that the Russian military’s equipment is not just adequate but superior to meet contemporary challenges.
Recent Delivery Context
The most recent delivery of the Su-35S fighter jets occurred in November of the previous year, during which UAC equipped the Russian Aerospace Forces with an undisclosed number of these state-of-the-art jets. The Su-35S, as a 4++ generation fighter, complements Russia’s commitment to developing its 5th generation fighter program exemplified by the Su-57.
Furthermore, the Su-35 aircraft have also been deployed in Algeria, highlighting their international appeal and reliability. This deployment aligns with Russia’s broader export strategy for its military technology, reinforcing its position in global defense markets.