Ethiopia Receives 12 Russian Su-35 Fighter Jets

Ethiopia announced the receipt of 12 Russian-made "Su-35" fighter jets, in line with its efforts to enhance military capabilities, while preparing to receive four "S-400" air defense systems from Moscow.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said on Wednesday that these shipments represent a milestone in his country's efforts to strengthen national security and achieve "preventive deterrence against aggression," according to what he wrote on the "X" platform.

Abiy added that Russian President Vladimir Putin contributed to ensuring the delivery of the "Su-35" fighters, classified as fourth-generation fighters, one year ahead of schedule.

The Ethiopian Prime Minister did not disclose the value of the agreement, nor the delivery date for the "S-400" systems, and did not reveal the locations where the fighters and air defense batteries will be stationed.

This move comes at a time when Ethiopia faces multiple security challenges, including renewed tensions in the northern Tigray region, where a rebel alliance launched an attack on the government last month, leading to renewed fighting in the area that witnessed a bloody war between 2020 and 2022 that killed hundreds of thousands.