Myanmar’s Ministry of Defense has announced the induction of new aircraft into the country’s Air Force, including two Russian-made Su-30SME fighter jets and two Chinese K-8W combat trainer aircraft.

The handover ceremony took place on March 12, 2026, at the airfield of the Air Force training school in Meiktila. The event was attended by the Chairman of the National Security and Peace Commission and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

Following the formal acceptance of the aircraft, an օդ display was held, featuring combat and transport planes as well as helicopters. The delivery of the Su-30SME fighters was carried out under a 2018 contract, under which Myanmar received a total of six such aircraft.

The Su-30SME is the export version of Russia’s twin-seat multirole Su-30SM fighter, classified as a «4++ generation» aircraft. It is designed to achieve air superiority, strike ground and maritime targets, and provide escort and cover for aviation groups.

The aircraft is equipped with modern electronic warfare systems and a powerful radar, and can deploy a wide range of weapons. Its high maneuverability is обеспечивается engines with thrust vector control and an aerodynamic configuration featuring forward horizontal stabilizers.