Report: Iran Begins Air Force Upgrade with Russian SU-35 SE Jets
The first two jets mark the beginning of the replacement of F-14s and Phantoms with 4.5-generation aircraft
Tehran received its first two Russian SU-35 SE fighter jets this week, part of an order for 50 aircraft intended to replace its aging fleet of F-14s and Phantoms. According to reports from FLUGREVUE, the initial jets were officially delivered to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.
The jets were dismantled and transported to Iran aboard a Russian Antonov AN-124 transport plane, where they were reassembled at Mehrabad Airport. Initially, Tehran ordered 25 SU-35 SE aircraft, but the order was later expanded to 50.
The SU-35 SE is considered a 4.5-generation multirole fighter equipped with advanced systems, including active electronic radar, a maximum speed of Mach 2.25, and a flight range of 3,600 kilometers. The aircraft is armed with a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, providing advanced combat capabilities across a range of scenarios.
According to Army Recognition, the new jets will be assigned to the 81st Tactical Fighter Squadron in Isfahan and the 31st Tactical Fighter Squadron in Hamadan. Construction work at the Hamadan base included new hangars to accommodate the aircraft and ensure efficient operations.
A group of Iranian Air Force pilots underwent training in Russia to operate the new jets. These trained pilots are expected to return to their bases within the year and begin operational activities with the advanced aircraft.
The acquisition of the SU-35 SEs reflects Iran’s ongoing investment in upgrading its military capabilities and strengthening the defensive and offensive capacities of its air force. Replacing the F-14s and Phantoms with advanced jets like the SU-35 SE significantly enhances the operational capabilities of Iran’s air force.