Iran Purchases Used Su-30SM2 Fighter Jets from Russia

Iran has finalized an agreement with Russia to procure a squadron of 12 Su-30SM2 fighter aircraft as part of efforts to update its air force fleet, according to the Hebrew website Natziv.

Russian sources reported that the Iranian Ministry of Defense signed the contract on June 4 to buy these Su-30SM2 jets, which are used aircraft with very low flight hours.

The report indicates that deliveries are scheduled to commence in mid-2027 and are expected to be completed by the end of that year, with preparations underway to provide Iran with the necessary infrastructure soon.

The deal is viewed as another step in strengthening military cooperation between Russia and Iran. Although the number of aircraft involved is relatively small, the transaction carries broad strategic implications.

Capabilities of the Su-30SM2 and Iranian Air Force Needs

The current Iranian Air Force relies on aircraft dating back to the Vietnam War era, including F-4, F-5, and F-14 models. The Su-30SM2 is a 4.5-generation multirole fighter featuring long-range strike capabilities, advanced air combat functions, and precision weaponry.

Unlike the Su-35, which is an air superiority fighter, the Su-30 is a two-seat aircraft excelling in complex strike missions and air support, thereby expanding Tehran's offensive capabilities.

The agreement also includes establishing technical infrastructure within Iran, which will facilitate the integration of additional Russian aircraft in the future, such as the Su-35, due to similarities in supply systems and engines.

Purchasing used jets with low flight hours enables relatively rapid delivery—within approximately a year and a half—and reduces costs by about 40% compared to new aircraft.

Implications for Israeli Defense

Despite the Israeli Air Force's clear technological edge, especially with F-35 jets, Iran’s acquisition of modern fighters compels Israel to allocate more resources to air defense to maintain its qualitative advantage.

The report reveals that Israel has already approved the procurement of additional squadrons of F-35 and F-15IA aircraft in response to these developments.

This transaction suggests that Russia is now prepared to supply Iran with advanced offensive weaponry, thereby limiting Israel’s political maneuvering space with the Kremlin.

Recent observations have detected Iranian glide bombs mounted on Russian Su-30 jets, indicating potential integration of technologies that could enhance the lethality and operational compatibility of Iran’s new fleet.