Iran set to buy 48 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia
Following its 12-day war with Israel, Iran is reportedly preparing to modernize its air force by purchasing 48 Russian Su-35 fighter jets, according to a detailed report by Newsweek.
The deal, valued at over $7 billion, could significantly upgrade Iran’s aerial capabilities and deepen military cooperation between Tehran and Moscow.
The report follows the leak of classified documents online, allegedly from Rostec, Russia’s state-owned defense conglomerate. While neither Iranian nor Russian officials have confirmed or denied the agreement, analysts say the move could reshape the regional balance of power if proven true.
According to Newsweek, the documents — released online by a hacker group called Black Mirror — include over 300 internal Rostec files outlining export contracts, pricing, and delivery timelines.
The leaked materials suggest that Tehran plans to acquire 48 Su-35 multirole jets equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems and avionics packages developed by KRET, a major Rostec subsidiary.
One document, labeled “Code 364”, reportedly corresponds to Iran and outlines a $686 million program with deliveries scheduled between 16 and 48 months. This means the first aircraft could arrive by 2026, with the final batch expected by 2028.
The files also mention the inclusion of Khibiny-M electronic warfare systems, designed to protect the aircraft from enemy radar and missiles.
The possible Su-35 purchase comes in the aftermath of Iran’s recent 12-day conflict with Israel, during which US airstrikes targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, exposing weaknesses in Iran’s ageing air fleet.
Defense experts note that acquiring modern fourth-generation fighters like the Su-35 would vastly improve Iran’s air defense, deterrence capabilities, and ability to protect strategic infrastructure.
If verified, the deal would mark one of Russia’s largest arms exports since its invasion of Ukraine, highlighting growing defense cooperation between two heavily sanctioned nations.
