Iran could receive its first shipment of the Russia Su-35 fighter jets as early as next week - Iranian media have said, cited by Forbes.

 

The shipment is believed to contain 24 jets, and will be delivered to Isfahan airbase, which was targeted a mere two days ago by a small-scale “Israeli” airstrike which also covered other sites in Iran, including nuclear facilities.

 

In 2021, it was reported that Iran ordered and paid for 50 Su-35 jets. However, It is unlikely that Russia could export such a number due to the ongoing “special military operation” in Ukraine.

 

The Iranian air force, which is relatively outdated, could benefit hugely from this addition as it could serve to defend against “Israeli” attacks, especially in this time of heightened tension in the region.

 

The Su-35 is a multi-role and air superiority fighter and is an improved variant of the Su-27 Soviet aircraft - it is a 4.5 gen fighter aircraft which made its debut in the Russian intervention in the Syrian crisis in 2016, and is considered a rival to the older American f-16s.