Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed confirmed the arrival of twelve Su-35 fighter aircraft from Russia, noting that President Vladimir Putin facilitated an early delivery of the equipment. The acquisition is part of a broader military upgrade that will eventually include four S-400 air defense systems. According to the Prime Minister, these reinforcements aim to enhance national security and discourage potential external threats. This military buildup occurs as Ethiopia manages renewed internal conflict in the Tigray region and escalating diplomatic tensions with neighboring Eritrea. While specific financial details and deployment locations remain undisclosed, the government emphasizes the strategic importance of advanced aviation in modern warfare, following the significant role air power played in previous domestic conflicts. Russian state defense entities have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the transaction.
Source : The Moscow Times
