Russia’s Aerospace Forces surpass the air fleets of other European countries in both size and combat capability, according to an assessment by The National Interest.

The publication estimates that Russia operates more than 900 frontline aircraft, giving it the largest tactical aviation fleet among European states. The core of this force consists of 4.5-generation multirole aircraft, including various versions of the Su-30 and Su-35, alongside Su-34 fighter-bombers.

Russia is also one of the few countries to have independently developed a fifth-generation fighter. Its Su-57 adds a modern stealth aircraft to an already extensive combat fleet.

The National Interest dismissed claims that Russian military aviation is weak, concluding that the country’s Aerospace Forces remain the strongest in Europe and currently face no comparable rival.

Turkey placed second in the ranking, followed by the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Germany.

In May, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced further upgrades to the country’s armed forces. He said the Navy would receive modern nuclear-powered submarine cruisers, while new upgraded bombers would enter service with the Aerospace Forces.

The Su-57 is a multirole combat aircraft designed to carry out a broad range of missions. It can engage targets in the air, on land and at sea, operating around the clock in difficult weather and under heavy electronic interference. Its reduced radar signature also allows it to strike targets while facing modern air defense systems.