The Russian state corporation Rostec has announced the delivery of new-generation fighter jets to the Russian Aerospace Forces. The delivered aircraft belong to the Su-35S model, classified as a 4++ generation fighter, and mark the first batch of combat aircraft delivered to units as of 2025.
Su-35S Delivery Process
All aircraft delivered to the Russian Aerospace Forces first successfully passed factory tests. Following these tests, technical teams received the jets, after which pilots from the Russian Ministry of Defense conducted various scenario-based evaluations. In the final stage, the aircraft were deployed to their assigned air bases.
Rostec’s First Deputy General Director, Vladimir Artyakov, commented on the delivery, stating:
“Our aircraft manufacturers are meticulously fulfilling their obligations to supply new jets to the units. This year, we delivered the first batch of serial production fighter jets. New batches of aviation systems are being prepared for production under state defense orders. Pilots are highly satisfied with the Su-35S’s advanced weapon systems and long-range targeting capabilities. These aircraft are designed to ensure air superiority and effectively engage ground and surface targets both day and night. Additionally, they can operate in remote regions far from base airfields.”
Plans to Increase Fighter Jet Production
The General Director of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), Vadim Badekha, stated that fighter jet production will increase starting in 2025.
“Our primary goal is to accelerate the production of in-demand military aircraft. A significant increase in production volume is planned, particularly for the Su-34, Su-35, and Su-57 models. To ensure the production of these fighter jets, we will continue expanding our manufacturing facilities,” he said.
The last delivery of Su-35S fighter jets to the Russian Aerospace Forces was in November 2024. In this context, UAC has been procuring a certain number of 4++ generation Su-35S aircraft alongside Russia’s 5th-generation fighter jet project, the Su-57.
