Ethiopia Receives 12 Su-35 Fighter Jets from Russia

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that Ethiopia has received 12 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia as part of a bilateral agreement. The Prime Minister also stated that the country is set to receive four S-400 air defense system batteries. Abiy noted that this delivery was completed one year ahead of schedule and expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for the expedited process.

With this acquisition, Ethiopia has become the first nation in sub-Saharan Africa to possess Su-35 fighter jets. The Prime Minister emphasized that these defense capabilities are crucial for ensuring national sovereignty, long-term security, and contributing to regional stability. He further stated that the government is building its defense capacity to preemptively deter any potential threats to the nation.