Ethiopia Receives Russian Fighter Jets Amid Tigray Conflict

Ethiopia has received twelve Su-35 fighter jets from Russia as armed conflict escalates in the northern Tigray region bordering Eritrea. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the arrival of the military aircraft during the Russia-Africa summit held in Moscow, calling the delivery a major milestone for the nation's defense capabilities.

The prime minister stated that the procurement agreement was finalized several years ago and that the advanced warplanes arrived ahead of schedule. Alongside the newly delivered jets, Ethiopia maintains plans to acquire four S-400 air defence systems from Moscow. Abiy emphasized that securing this military hardware is necessary to safeguard the country against external threats and ensure national survival.

Advanced Russian fighter jets arrive in Ethiopia to boost national defense capabilities.

Describing Russian President Vladimir Putin as a close friend, Abiy noted that Ethiopia is now the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to operate this advanced combat technology. He warned that surviving in the region would become extremely difficult without building adequate military deterrence. Military intelligence analysts have observed that the aircraft are equipped for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, featuring radar systems designed to ensure air superiority.

The delivery follows the outbreak of fresh fighting last month in northern Tigray between the government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front, with both sides accusing each other of violating a previous 2022 peace agreement. In addition to internal security concerns, regional tensions persist over maritime access and accusations that Eritrea is supporting the TPLF, which Eritrea denies. Ethiopian authorities stress that combining the newly acquired fighter jets with existing military drones will significantly strengthen the defense of major cities and critical infrastructure.