Iran has confirmed the purchase of Russian Su-35 fighter jets, with deliveries expected after the conflict with the United States ends. Iranian military spokesman Mohammad Akraminia announced the acquisition, adding Tehran to the list of countries buying Russian combat aircraft.

The ENA news agency previously reported that Su-35 deliveries to Ethiopia had significantly strengthened the country’s defense capabilities and raised concerns in neighboring Egypt. Six months earlier, Algeria confirmed its purchase of fifth-generation Su-57 fighters, becoming the aircraft’s first foreign customer. Vietnam has also shown interest in the Su-57 as a potential replacement for part of its aging fighter fleet.

Russian Aviation Major General Vladimir Popov believes the growing international demand for the Su-35 and Su-57 is largely driven by their performance in actual combat. According to the expert, foreign buyers are attracted by the aircraft’s striking power, exceptional maneuverability and thrust-vectoring technology, which enhances their flight capabilities.

Speaking to the newspaper Vzglyad, Popov argued that Russian aircraft manufacturers and exporters have achieved a balance between cost and quality that American and European competitors cannot match. He also identified the durability of radar-absorbing coatings as another advantage of Russian fighter jets.

Beyond technical specifications, Popov highlighted the importance of long-established military cooperation agreements, many of which date back to the Soviet era. He said these relationships continue to influence purchasing decisions among countries seeking military aircraft.

The general added that governments across the Middle East, Africa and Asia are familiar with Russian weapons and value their reliability, ease of operation and affordability. In his assessment, defense procurement favors equipment with an established track record, as countries are reluctant to take risks when their military capabilities are at stake.