Iran’s Deputy Defence Minister, Mehdi Farahi, has announced that arrangements for the delivery of Russian-made Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets and helicopters have been finalized. This development signifies the strengthening military cooperation between Tehran and Moscow. The Iranian air force currently possesses a limited number of strike aircraft, which include Russian jets and outdated U.S. models obtained prior to the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Farahi stated that plans have been made for the Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, Mil Mi-28 attack helicopters, and Yak-130 jet trainers to be integrated into Iran’s Army combat units. However, the Tasnim report lacks confirmation from the Russian side regarding the deal. As of 2018, Iran announced the initiation of production for the domestically-designed Kowsar fighter jet, which military experts believe to be a replica of the U.S.-origin F-5 produced in the 1960s.
Negotiations for the acquisition of Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets have been ongoing since late last year, as part of the joint military cooperation efforts between Tehran and the Kremlin. Despite the longstanding sanctions against Iran, the country remains a significant military power in West Asia with a force of over half a million active personnel. Over the past few years, defence, trade, and banking ties between Iran and Russia have been steadily growing, despite the western sanctions imposed on both nations. Earlier this year, the central banks of Iran and Russia signed an interbank transfer deal, facilitating connections and transfers between 52 Iranian banks and 106 Russian banks. Furthermore, it is anticipated that Iran will join BRICS at the beginning of 2024, with Russia playing a pivotal role in the group’s organization. During the 15th annual BRICS summit, Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi expressed that the expansion of the bloc represents a new stride towards establishing justice, ethics, and sustainable peace in the world.
In an interview with Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, General Farahi has confirmed that the procurement processes for these advanced military aircraft are currently underway. This will ensure the smooth integration of Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, Mil Mi-28 attack helicopters, and Yak-130 jet trainers into Iran’s defense arsenal. This strategic enhancement is expected to greatly enhance Iran’s aerial combat readiness.
In the midst of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Iran and Russia have forged collaborative connections in various sectors, including economic, trade, energy, and military cooperation. This joint effort has resulted in significant partnerships, exemplified by the recent delivery of Yak-130 jet trainers to the Iranian Air Force.
The inclusion of the Yakovlev Yak-130 in Iran’s fleet represents a significant progress in strengthening the training capabilities of Iranian military pilots. This integration aims to facilitate their transition to operating advanced aircraft more effectively.
The senior US defence official expressed concerns about the potential consequences of Russia providing advanced military technology to Iran, emphasizing that these repercussions could have far-reaching effects in the entire region. However, despite the warnings about cooperation, the Israeli occupation engaged in discussions with the United States regarding a bilateral defence partnership. This included the recently concluded JUNIPER OAK exercise, which involved over 7,000 Israeli occupation forces and US troops. The Pentagon also stated that both parties agreed to further collaborate in the military sphere.
Reference: https://www.reuters.com/world/iran-finalises-deal-buy-russian-fighter-jets-tasnim-2023-11-28/
Submitted By: Jagriti Tiwari, A first Year Legal Intern At Legal Vidhya
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