Ethiopia Takes Delivery of 12 Su-35 Fighter Jets

Ethiopia has officially taken delivery of its first batch of 12 Su-35 4.5-generation fighter jets from Russia. The arrival of these aircraft came one year ahead of schedule following a directive from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Known as the 'Flanker-E' by NATO, the Su-35 is a highly advanced multirole fighter equipped with Irbis-E radar, capable of tracking 30 targets simultaneously, and thrust-vectoring technology for enhanced maneuverability. The jets are capable of carrying up to 8,000 kilograms of weaponry, including various air-to-air, air-to-ground missiles, and precision-guided bombs. They are also equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems to confuse enemy radar and communications.