By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Newly obtained documents confirm that Russia is secretly manufacturing Su-35 fighter jets for Iran, with deliveries expected by 2027. The internal documents, dating from 2024 to 2025, show coordinated efforts across Russian defense plants to fulfill the order, with parts being manufactured for export and explicitly marked for Iran (“K10”). This deal, which includes full prepayment, highlights the deepening military cooperation between Russia and Iran despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Such advanced technology may shift the balance of power in the region.
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Russia is Building Su-35 Fighter Jets for Iran—Secret Files Reveal the Numbers and Delivery Timeline, a tale that’s unfolding, and honestly, the plot twists keep coming. The core of the issue, as it stands, is that Russia is allegedly constructing Su-35 fighter jets for Iran. That’s the headline. And, as we’re increasingly finding out, the details are far more intriguing than initially anticipated.
It seems almost predictable, doesn’t it? Russia, aligning with those who often challenge the United States, is providing advanced military hardware. While some might be surprised, it feels like a continuation of a well-established pattern. The fact that Trump maintained a close relationship with Putin only adds a layer of complexity to this narrative.
The timing of this news is, to put it mildly, interesting. There’s a glaring disconnect between Iran’s current state of affairs and its priorities. Reports suggest the country is facing a significant humanitarian crisis due to water scarcity. Meanwhile, the leadership decides to invest in advanced fighter jets. It’s akin to buying a luxury item when you can’t afford basic necessities.
The fighter jets themselves, the Su-35s, are unlikely to address Iran’s most pressing concerns, like its growing water crisis. The effectiveness of these jets in potential conflicts is also a subject of debate. The history of Russian military technology in action, like in India, doesn’t always inspire confidence.
It’s natural to wonder why this deal is even considered secret. There are no international treaties explicitly preventing Iran from acquiring fighter jets, and Iran has been transparent about its intentions to bolster its military. The secrecy, therefore, hints at something else. Perhaps it’s a concern about the potential reaction from other nations or the strategic implications of such a deal.
Considering Russia’s ongoing struggles in Ukraine, building planes for another country raises questions about priorities and resource allocation. It seems counterintuitive that Russia, facing logistical and operational challenges in a major conflict, would focus on supplying military hardware to another nation. This could suggest they are desperate for cash.
The effectiveness of these Su-35s in a potential conflict with adversaries like Israel or the US is also a matter of discussion. Given the technological advantage held by these nations, questions arise regarding how effective the jets might actually be. They may be outmatched.
The potential for these Su-35s to undergo “de-featuring,” a process where advanced capabilities are removed, seems very possible. This would be a common cost-cutting measure, but it further calls into question the value of the jets.
The numbers involved, as well as the proposed timeline, are becoming clearer. The volume, even if it’s “only” a certain amount of jets, represents a capability boost for Iran. The range, avionics, and weaponry of the Su-35 make them a dangerous deterrent, capable of escalating tensions in the region.
The acquisition of Su-35s could spark an arms race in the Middle East. It is very likely to cause a chain reaction, with other countries feeling compelled to acquire similar capabilities. This adds a layer of unpredictability and risk to an already volatile region.
The funding for this project and the source of components raise critical questions. Given the economic sanctions against Russia and its strained production capabilities, how will these jets be built? The answer likely lies with China, which may be providing the necessary resources.
Ultimately, the acquisition of the Su-35s appears to be a costly move for Iran, diverting resources from critical domestic needs. The jets themselves may not offer the strategic advantage hoped for.