Russia delivers new batch of Su-35S fighters
Russia’s state aircraft manufacturer has delivered the final batch of Su-35 fighter jets to the country’s air force for 2025, according to official disclosures, closing out another year of tactical aviation deliveries as the war in Ukraine continues.
According to the United Aircraft Corporation, the company transferred the final batch of Su-35 fighters to the Russian Aerospace Forces this year. The handover took place after factory acceptance flights designed to confirm declared performance characteristics and overall aircraft quality.
The company did not disclose the exact number of aircraft included in the latest batch. However, analysis of photographs released alongside the announcement suggests that two or three Su-35S fighters were delivered, based on visible airframes.
United Aircraft Corporation said the aircraft were transferred only after completing factory test flights, a standard procedure intended to verify flight performance and systems reliability before operational service.
Earlier reporting this month indicated that Russia’s defense industry delivered roughly 14 Su-34 frontline bombers and about 10 Su-35S fighter jets to its armed forces in 2025. Those deliveries expanded Moscow’s tactical aviation inventory as the conflict entered its fourth year.
According to those assessments, the additional aircraft allow Russia to increase pressure on Ukraine by raising the tempo of guided air-to-ground weapon use and strengthening air cover for frontline operations. The Su-34, manufactured by the Sukhoi Design Bureau and operated by the Russian Aerospace Forces, is a twin-engine strike aircraft used to launch glide bombs and other precision munitions from standoff distances.
The Su-35S is Russia’s most modern serially produced air-superiority fighter. The aircraft is designed to provide air dominance, escort strike aircraft, and conduct long-range patrols. It also plays a role in suppressing enemy air defenses and deterring opposing aircraft near contested airspace.
Recent aircraft deliveries could support more frequent Russian strikes launched from within Russian airspace. Operating from bases deeper inside Russia reduces exposure to Ukrainian air defenses and limits Kyiv’s ability to target launch platforms.
As noted in early reporting, Ukraine remains restricted from using partner-supplied long-range missiles against targets inside Russian territory. These constraints have reduced Ukraine’s ability to strike Russian airbases, allowing Moscow to sustain aircraft operations closer to the front line while minimizing risk to its aviation assets.
The continued delivery of new or upgraded combat aircraft suggests that Russia’s aerospace industry has maintained a steady, though limited, production tempo despite sanctions and wartime pressures. While annual output remains well below Cold War levels, incremental deliveries allow the Russian military to offset losses and keep key squadrons operational.
The timing of the final Su-35 batch also signals that Russia intends to enter 2026 with refreshed tactical aviation units, particularly in roles tied to air cover and long-range strike coordination. These aircraft are expected to operate alongside existing Su-34 bombers and other strike platforms already active in the war.
