Defense & Military
Russia Receives New Su-35S Jets Amid Global Defense Shifts
UAC delivers advanced Su-35S fighters to Russia, scales production for domestic and export markets while navigating sanctions and geopolitical pressures.
Introduction: The Strategic Significance of Su-35S Deliveries
The recent delivery of Su-35S fighter jets by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) to the Russian Aerospace Forces marks a critical development in Russia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its airpower capabilities. As geopolitical tensions persist and military operations continue in regions such as Ukraine, the timely reinforcement of Russia’s air fleet with advanced aircraft like the Su-35S reflects both strategic necessity and industrial resilience.
The Su-35S, a 4++ generation multirole fighter, serves as a technological bridge between legacy platforms such as the Su-27 and next-generation stealth aircraft like the Su-57. With capabilities that include supermaneuverability, long-range radar detection, and a diverse weapon payload, the Su-35S plays a pivotal role in Russia’s military doctrine. The 2025 deliveries, representing the second batch this year, are part of a broader defense procurement plan extending through 2030.
Beyond domestic deployment, the Su-35S has drawn international attention, particularly from countries like Algeria. As export deals evolve and production scales up, the aircraft’s role in shaping regional balances of power and global arms markets becomes increasingly evident.
Production and Technical Capabilities of the Su-35S
Manufacturing and Delivery Trends
The Su-35S aircraft are produced at the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aviation Plant, a key facility under UAC. According to official reports, the second batch of 2025 has been delivered, with the third and fourth aircraft of the year now in service. The plant is currently operating at full capacity, with plans to increase output by 2028 to meet growing demand from both domestic and international clients.
Production rates have been consistent, with deliveries occurring every two to three months. This pace aligns with the state defense order initiated in 2024, which mandates sustained production of Su-35S units through the end of the decade. Satellite imagery and defense analysis suggest that approximately 30–35 units are produced annually, a figure that may rise with ongoing infrastructure expansion.
In terms of cost, the Su-35S is positioned as a more affordable alternative to Western counterparts. Unit prices are estimated between $45 million and $69.4 million, significantly lower than the F-35 ($122 million) or F-15EX ($101 million). This price-performance ratio enhances the aircraft’s appeal in the export market.
“Our plants are meeting targets set by the state defense order. We are expanding production infrastructure to support future deliveries,” Vadim Badekha, UAC CEO
Technical Specifications and Combat Readiness
The Su-35S incorporates several advanced technologies that enhance its operational effectiveness. Its AL-41F1S engines with thrust vectoring allow for supermaneuverability and supersonic cruising without afterburners. The Irbis-E radar system can detect targets at ranges up to 400 km and guide long-range missiles such as the R-37M, which has a range of 400 km.
With a payload capacity of 8 tons across 12 hardpoints, the Su-35S can carry a variety of munitions, including air-to-air missiles and precision-guided bombs. Its combat radius of approximately 1,500 km enables deep strike and air superiority missions without the need for frequent refueling.
All delivered aircraft undergo rigorous factory testing and operational evaluations before deployment. These tests include flight evaluations in varying weather conditions and acceptance trials by Ministry of Defense personnel, ensuring operational readiness upon arrival at frontline bases.
Export Dynamics and International Interest
While the Su-35S primarily serves the Russian Aerospace Forces, it has also attracted interest from international buyers. Algeria recently received units originally intended for Egypt, marking a significant milestone in Russia’s defense export strategy. Satellite imagery and video evidence have confirmed the presence of Su-35S aircraft at Algerian airbases.
Discussions regarding Algeria’s interest date back to 2016, and the recent deliveries indicate the culmination of years of negotiation. Other countries, such as Vietnam, have also expressed interest, though Western sanctions and political pressures have disrupted some deals.
Despite export challenges, the Su-35S remains a competitive option for countries seeking high-performance aircraft at a lower cost. Its proven combat capabilities and affordability make it a viable alternative to Western and Chinese platforms in the global arms market.
Strategic and Operational Implications
Role in Ongoing Conflicts
Although the Su-35S has not been deployed extensively in the Ukraine conflict, its presence in the Russian fleet enhances overall airpower capabilities. The aircraft is primarily used for air defense and strategic strike missions, complementing other platforms like the Su-34 and Su-57.
Russia’s increased losses in Ukraine have prompted a shift in procurement priorities, with greater emphasis on replenishing and upgrading the fighter fleet. The Su-35S, with its advanced avionics and long-range capabilities, plays a key role in this strategy.
Its deployment to frontline bases provides Russia with the ability to project airpower across contested regions, reinforcing its strategic posture amid ongoing tensions.
Challenges in Modernization and Sanctions
One of the key hurdles facing the Su-35S program is the impact of international sanctions, particularly those targeting microelectronics and avionics components. Despite these restrictions, UAC has continued production by leveraging domestic alternatives and prioritizing resource allocation.
However, the reliance on non-stealth designs presents limitations in advanced conflict zones equipped with modern air defense systems. While effective against older systems, the Su-35S may face operational constraints in highly contested environments.
These challenges underscore the need for continued modernization and potential upgrades to maintain the aircraft’s relevance in future combat scenarios.
Export Strategy and Geopolitical Influence
The Su-35S serves not only as a military asset but also as a diplomatic tool in Russia’s foreign policy. By offering high-performance aircraft to non-aligned nations, Russia aims to strengthen strategic partnerships and expand its influence.
However, the geopolitical landscape complicates long-term export strategies. Western pressure has led to the cancellation of some deals, such as Egypt’s, while others remain in negotiation. Nonetheless, the aircraft’s cost-effectiveness continues to attract interest from countries with limited defense budgets.
As UAC scales up production and explores new markets, the Su-35S is likely to remain a linchpin in Russia’s dual strategy of military modernization and geopolitical outreach.
Conclusion
The delivery of the latest batch of Su-35S fighter jets to the Russian Aerospace Forces signifies more than just an industrial milestone—it reflects a broader strategy of enhancing national defense capabilities while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics. With its blend of advanced technology, affordability, and combat readiness, the Su-35S continues to play a central role in Russia’s airpower doctrine.
Looking ahead, the aircraft’s future will depend on how effectively Russia can address production challenges, adapt to evolving combat environments, and sustain interest from international buyers amidst growing global scrutiny. As the world watches the shifting contours of modern warfare, the Su-35S will remain a focal point in discussions about air superiority, defense economics, and strategic influence.
FAQ
What is the Su-35S?
The Su-35S is a 4++ generation multirole fighter jet developed by Russia as an advanced version of the Su-27. It features thrust-vectoring engines, a long-range radar, and a wide array of weapon systems.
How many Su-35S jets has Russia received in 2025?
As of May 2025, Russia has received at least four new Su-35S aircraft, delivered in two batches. Production is ongoing as part of a state defense order through 2030.
Which countries are interested in purchasing the Su-35S?
Algeria has recently received Su-35S jets, while countries like Vietnam have expressed interest. Egypt previously canceled its order due to geopolitical pressures.
Sources: Militarnyi, Rostec, DefenseTalks, Defence Blog, Army Recognition, Bulgarian Military
Photo Credit: ZonaMilitar
Defense & Military
Boeing Wins $20B U.S. Navy F/A-XX Fighter Contract
The U.S. Navy awarded Boeing $20B+ for F/A-XX full-scale development, cementing its role in sixth-generation air dominance.
The U.S. Navy has awarded The Boeing Company a contract valued at more than $20 billion for the full-scale development phase of the F/A-XX Strike Fighter, cementing the manufacturer as the sole provider of America’s sixth-generation combat aircraft.
Announced on September 29, 2026, by the U.S. Department of War, the award advances the strike fighter component of the Navy’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. The F/A-XX is slated to begin augmenting and eventually replacing the service’s legacy fleet of Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlers in the 2030s.
Advancing naval air superiority
The newly announced contract procures multiple test aircraft for ground, airworthiness, systems, and weapons integration testing. The F/A-XX is designed as a carrier-based fighter featuring extended range, an open mission systems architecture, and interoperability with both manned and unmanned platforms, including Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA).
Department of War officials emphasized the strategic necessity of the program amid evolving global threats.
“The F/A-XX platform represents a crucial, non-negotiable investment in America’s national security and long-term air combat capabilities. We are joining forces with Boeing to field these capabilities rapidly, ensuring our warfighters possess the lethal and highly networked systems required to deter aggression, project undisputed power, and secure absolute air superiority.”
The statement from Michael P. Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment, was echoed by Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao, who described the aircraft as a generational leap in air superiority that will provide naval aviators with unparalleled combat capabilities.
Consolidating the sixth-generation industrial base
The F/A-XX competition in its late stages was primarily a contest between Boeing and Northrop Grumman. Boeing’s victory fundamentally reshapes the defense aerospace market. Combined with the March 2025 contract to develop the U.S. Air Force’s next-generation fighter, the F-47, Boeing now controls both of the Pentagon’s premier future fighter programs.
As reported by Breaking Defense, the award effectively excludes competitors Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin from the sixth-generation fighter market. Lockheed Martin will continue to produce the fifth-generation F-35C Joint Strike Fighter for the Navy, but the future of carrier-based air dominance now rests entirely with Boeing.
Steve Parker, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, stated that the company is prepared to execute both massive defense programs simultaneously.
“Delivering two advanced fighters in parallel was always our plan, and we invested accordingly,” Parker said in a corporate release. “We are ready and able to build multiple concurrent future combat aircraft franchise programs.”
To support this production, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is constructing a secure manufacturing facility in St. Louis, Missouri. The company noted that the facility will function as part of an all-digital aerospace design and manufacturing system uniquely suited to build multiple products with next-generation capabilities.
Congressional funding and operational timeline
The contract award follows a significant injection of capital from lawmakers. Congress appropriated $972 million for F/A-XX research and development in the fiscal 2026 defense appropriations bill. According to Aviation Week, this funding level represented a substantial increase over the initial $74 million requested by the Defense Department, a change driven by congressional frustration over slow program progress and repeated contract extensions.
With full-scale development now funded and contracted, Boeing and the Navy are targeting the 2030s for the initial fielding of the F/A-XX, at which point the aircraft will begin to take over the carrier strike group roles currently fulfilled by the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and the electronic warfare-focused EA-18G Growler.
AirPro News analysis
Boeing’s sweep of the F-47 and F/A-XX programs represents a historic consolidation of the U.S. tactical aircraft industrial base. Just a few years ago, Boeing faced the prospect of its fighter production lines going cold as legacy F/A-18 and F-15EX orders wound down. Now, the company holds an undisputed monopoly on the next generation of air dominance.
For competitors Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, the loss of the F/A-XX restricts their future tactical aviation portfolios to legacy fifth-generation production and unmanned systems. This outcome fundamentally reshapes the aerospace defense market for the next three decades, placing the burden of delivering the military’s most complex and expensive future combat systems squarely on Boeing’s St. Louis facilities.
Photo Credit: Boeing
Defense & Military
USAF Awards Boeing $2.38B Contract for 22 F-15EX Eagle II Jets
The Air Force awarded Boeing a $2.38B Lot 7 contract for 22 F-15EX Eagle II fighters, bringing total aircraft under contract to 120.
Announced by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the Lot 7 agreement secures the full intended aircraft quantity ahead of the fiscal year-end deadline by utilizing congressionally provided reconciliation funding to offset defense industrial base inflation.
Navigating production and inflation hurdles
The F-15EX program has encountered significant manufacturing hurdles over the past two years. According to the DAF press release, the Lot 7 negotiations required an integrated team to navigate the effects of a 2025 production disruption and broader economic inflation across the defense sector.
Air Data News reported that Boeing has faced specific challenges at its St. Louis, Missouri, assembly line. These constraints included forward fuselage manufacturing issues and a reported labor strike that impacted the facility, leading to delays in subsequent production lots.
Despite these constraints, the DAF maintained the procurement quantity. Earlier Air Force budget documents indicated a planned Lot 7 purchase of 21 aircraft, but the final contract secured 22 airframes. The official announcement noted that the preservation of buying power was achieved through reconciliation funding.
Brig. Gen. Timothy Helfrich, Portfolio Acquisition Executive for the Fighters and Advanced Aircraft Directorate, stated in the DAF release that the contract reflects a disciplined approach to executing available resources while balancing the realities affecting defense production.
“The team remained focused on affordability, production continuity and delivering the aircraft needed to modernize the U.S. Air Force’s fighter fleet for the threats we face today and into the future,” Helfrich said.
Expanding fleet requirements and delivery timelines
The Boeing Company’s Defense, Space & Security division manufactures the F-15EX Eagle II. The aircraft is a modern, multirole heavy fighter that builds on the legacy F-15 design, incorporating advanced avionics, large-area displays, a digital backbone architecture, and enhanced survivability capabilities. It was initially procured to replace the aging U.S. Air Force fleet of F-15C and F-15D fighters reaching the end of their service lives.
While the Air Force originally planned to cap F-15EX procurement at 98 aircraft, recent force structure plans have expanded the requirement to more than 260 airframes. Air Data News notes that the expanded fleet will also replace a portion of the F-15E Strike Eagle fleet.
The Lot 7 award brings the total number of F-15EX aircraft under contract to 120. Boeing previously secured 98 fighters through Lot 6, which was awarded on January 22, 2025, for 18 aircraft.
Delivery schedules have shifted due to the recent production disruptions. Boeing will continue delivering aircraft from the third production lot (Lot 3) through the remainder of 2026. However, deliveries from Lot 4, initially targeted for 2026, are now scheduled to begin in 2028.
To meet the expanded fleet requirements, Boeing and the Air Force are working to accelerate production at the St. Louis facility to a target rate of two F-15EX fighters per month.
AirPro News analysis
The expansion of the F-15EX program from a capped 98-aircraft replacement initiative to a 260-plus fleet requirement underscores a strategic shift in Air Force force structure planning. Securing 22 aircraft in Lot 7, one more than initially budgeted, demonstrates a prioritization of heavy fighter capacity even as the defense industrial base grapples with inflation and supply chain fragility. The two-year delay in Lot 4 deliveries highlights the persistent gap between procurement ambitions and manufacturing realities. We expect the St. Louis assembly line’s ability to stabilize at the target rate of two aircraft per month will be the primary metric for the program’s health over the next fiscal year.
Photo Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Samuel King Jr.
Defense & Military
GE Aerospace and WZL-1 Finalize T700 MRO Deal in Poland
GE Aerospace and WZL-1 establish a licensed T700 and CT7 MRO facility in Dęblin tied to Poland’s AH-64E Apache procurement.
GE Aerospace and Poland’s Military Aviation Works No. 1 have finalized an agreement establishing a licensed MRO facility in Dęblin for T700 and CT7 helicopter engines.
Announced in a joint press release on September 28, 2026, the partnership fulfills a localization commitment tied to the Polish Ministry of National Defense’s 2024 procurement of 96 Boeing AH-64E Apache helicopters. The agreement secures domestic sustainment capabilities for the Polish Armed Forces’ rapidly expanding rotorcraft fleet.
Expanding Sovereign Sustainment Capabilities
The newly finalized agreement designates Military Aviation Works No. 1 (WZL-1), a subsidiary of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), as an official maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider for the GE Aerospace engine families. This localized capability will directly support the propulsion systems for several critical platforms operated by the Polish military.
In addition to the incoming Boeing AH-64E Apache fleet, the T700 and CT7 engines power Poland’s Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk, Leonardo AW149, and Leonardo AW101 helicopters. Establishing a domestic maintenance pipeline is designed to ensure long-term operational readiness without relying on cross-border logistics for routine engine overhauls.
“This agreement represents a significant milestone in the development of Poland’s sovereign MRO capabilities for T700 and CT7 engines,” said Jacek A. Goszczyński, CEO of WZL-1. “The competencies gained through this partnership will enable us to support the long-term readiness of the AH-64E Apache fleet and other critical platforms operated by the Polish Armed Forces.”
Shawn Warren, Vice President of Defense & Systems at GE Aerospace, noted that WZL-1 already holds a strong reputation for engine maintenance in Poland. He stated that the licensed MRO designation will ensure the engines are supported to the manufacturer’s high standards.
A Growing Hub for US Military Propulsion
The T700 and CT7 engine family currently powers 15 different types of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft globally. According to GE Aerospace, the company has delivered more than 25,000 of these engines to over 130 customers in more than 50 countries, accumulating over 130 million flight hours. In Europe alone, more than 1,300 engines are delivered or on order across 20 military and commercial operators.
The engine maintenance agreement builds upon GE Aerospace’s existing footprint in Poland, where the company employs more than 2,300 people across five locations. It also aligns with broader efforts by the Polish Armaments Group to consolidate the sustainment of American-made military hardware within the country.
In parallel to the helicopter engine initiative, WZL-1 is developing a maintenance hub for Honeywell AGT1500 gas turbine engines. These power the M1A1 and M1A2 Abrams tanks recently acquired by the Polish land forces.
Adam Leszkiewicz, President of the Management Board of PGZ, highlighted the strategic importance of the Dęblin facility. He stated that the combination of T700, CT7, and AGT1500 expertise is transforming the site into the leading center in the region for the maintenance of American military propulsion systems.
AirPro News analysis
The finalization of the GE Aerospace and WZL-1 agreement illustrates the structural shift in European defense procurement following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. As Poland executes unprecedented acquisitions of US military hardware, the Ministry of National Defense is strictly enforcing offset agreements to build domestic industrial capacity. By anchoring the MRO for both the Apache’s T700 engines and the Abrams’ AGT1500 engines at a single sovereign facility, Poland is mitigating supply chain vulnerabilities. We view this localization strategy as a blueprint for other NATO members scaling their fleets, as it ensures high-tempo operational readiness while insulating critical maintenance pipelines from international logistical bottlenecks.
Sources: GE Aerospace
Photo Credit: GE Aerospace
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