- October 24, 2024
- 7:08 pm
- Middle East
Iran and Russia have significantly strengthened their military-technical cooperation in recent years.
According to sources from Turkey cited Iranian journalist Khayal Muazin, Iran plans to start production of Russian Su-30 and Su-35 fighters inside the country.
According to information, Tehran has already received a license to produce these aircraft and is preparing to create an assembly plant in the near future..
“This will be a significant step in the development of Iranian aviation,” Muazin said in his report.
The story of Russian fighters for Iran
The Russian side initially planned to supply Iran with Su-35 fighters, which was a significant step in the development of military-technical cooperation between the two countries. However, according to recent statements, Iran has received a license to produce the Su-30 and Su-35 on its territory. This will not only reduce Iran's dependence on Russian supplies, but will also allow it to create its own aviation industry, which will significantly increase its military capabilities.
Iranian military analysts have repeatedly emphasized in recent years that local production of the Su-30 and Su-35 will allow Tehran greater operational autonomy and flexibility, especially in light of ongoing regional tensions. According to them, such a project could lead to strengthening the country's defense capability.
At the moment, there is no updated information on Su-35 deliveries to Iran. These planes had been expected in recent months, but both Tehran and Moscow remained silent. The idea of producing Su-35 and Su-30 domestically is not new to the public.
When asked about this in July 2023, Iranian Defense Minister Mohammad Reza Gharai Ashtiani hinted at a change in strategy. His response showed that Iran has the capabilities to produce these high-performance fighter jets domestically.
Although Ashtiani was hesitant to reveal details, he said:
“At some point we agreed to buy, but we realized that we have the opportunity to produce these (fighter jets) in our own country.”
However, he did not rule out the possibility of reconsidering the purchase, saying that authorities were “assessing the situation” and could reconsider the decision if necessary.
Consequences for the Iranian Air Force:
- Operational autonomy. Domestic production of the Su-30 and Su-35 will significantly strengthen the Iranian Air Force and give it more operational flexibility. It will also reduce Iran's dependence on international arms supplies.
- Job creation and industrial development. Organizing the production of combat aircraft within the country will create new jobs and contribute to the development of the Iranian aviation industry.
- Technological development. The transfer of technology and the production of modern combat aircraft will strengthen Iran’s technical base, which is especially important under sanctions.
Impact on regional and global security
Iran's production of Russian Su-30 and Su-35 fighter jets also has important geopolitical implications. The production of these aircraft will not only strengthen Iran's military power, but will also create a new point of tension in the Middle East.
Possible consequences:
- Strengthening Iran's position in the region. Iran, possessing modern combat aircraft, will increase its influence in the region, especially in relations with countries such as Saudi Arabia and Israel.
- Reaction of the West and Israel. The strategic partnership between Iran and Russia is already causing concern among Western countries and Israel. The production of the Su-35 in Iran will only increase these tensions.
Quote: “Iran will be able to carry out a wide range of missions, from air combat to precision strikes against ground targets,” Iranian analysts note, highlighting the military capabilities of the Su-35.
How are the Su-30 and Su-35 changing the game?
The Su-30 and Su-35 are multi-role fighters that share a number of common features, but also have key differences.
| Model | Advantages | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|
| Su-30 | Long patrols and long-range strikes | Extended range, two-pilot configuration |
| Su-35 | High maneuverability and avionics | Capable of dealing with multiple air targets |
Threat to Israel: How to respond to Russian-Iranian cooperation?
With the strengthening of Russian-Iranian military-technical cooperation, especially in the context of the production of Su-30 and Su-35 fighter jets, Israel faces new challenges. It is important to understand how this will affect Israel's security strategy and its attitude towards Russia.
Potential threats to Israel:
- Strengthening Iranian military power: The production of modern fighter jets will allow Iran to improve its air force and increase its ability to strike targets in the region.
- Increasing Iranian influence: A strong air force could strengthen Iran's position in the Middle East, posing a threat to Israel and its allies such as Saudi Arabia.
- Access to new technologies: The possible mastery of Russian fighter technology by Iranian specialists could increase the level of their defense capability and reduce dependence on external supplies.
Israel's reaction:
Israel can increase its military activity and modernize its air force in response to these threats. Israel is also likely to actively cooperate with its allies to offset possible changes in the balance of power in the Middle East.
The situation requires careful monitoring and a prompt response from Israel, given the potential risks that new Russian-Iranian cooperation poses for the security of the region.
Conclusion: Why is this important?
The production of Russian fighter jets in Iran is a significant step not only for the country itself, but for the entire Middle East. This project strengthens Iranian defense capabilities and creates new challenges for the West and Israel.
“NAnovosti” emphasizes: the development of Russian-Iranian cooperation in the field of aviation may lead to a change in the balance of power in the region, which requires careful monitoring by the world community.
“This is a step that will change the rules of the game in the Middle East,” – military analysts note.
