With fresh deliveries to the Russian Air Force and new foreign buyers entering the scene, the Su-35’s future is looking anything but grounded.
The Russian Air Force has officially received its first batch of new Su-35 fighter jets for 2025—marking a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to modernize its aerial combat capabilities. These latest aircraft have completed rigorous factory testing and operational evaluations under diverse conditions, according to state defense giant Rostec.
“Our aircraft manufacturers are fulfilling their obligations under the state defence order,” declared Vladimir Artyakov, First Deputy General Director of Rostec. “The Su-35S is a powerful multi-role fighter designed for superiority in the skies, and also capable of striking ground and maritime targets around the clock, no matter the weather.”
A Modern Classic with Long Legs
A heavily upgraded derivative of the Cold War-era Su-27 Flanker, the Su-35 boasts a combat radius of nearly 2,000 kilometers—far surpassing its predecessor. The key? A sleek composite airframe that holds more fuel and AL-41F-1S engines, which are both more powerful and fuel-efficient than the older AL-31F.
That range is no small feat, and it’s one of the key reasons the Su-35 continues to command attention despite newer aircraft entering service.
Production on the Rise—But With a Twist
Speaking on the sidelines of the recent handover, Vadim Badekha, General Director of United Arms Corporation, confirmed a production ramp-up not just for the Su-35, but also for the Su-34 and Su-57 models.
“Our priority is to increase manufacturing output across all three lines,” he said, noting that investments in technical infrastructure and workforce training are already underway to support the scale-up.
This is somewhat of a surprise for defense analysts. The Su-35 was previously expected to be gradually phased out in favor of the stealthy Su-57 fifth-generation jet, with only about 200 Su-35 units planned. But rising export interest is changing that outlook.
Global Demand Takes Off
For now, it appears that many of these new Su-35s won’t be staying home. Instead, they’re bound for foreign air forces.
In January 2025, Iran confirmed a deal to acquire Su-35s, aiming to replace its aging fleet of U.S.-made fighters dating back to the Vietnam War era. Given the sheer number of aircraft Iran needs to replace, its order could become one of the largest to date.
Soon after, on March 13, Algeria became the third confirmed operator of the Su-35, further expanding the jet’s global footprint. Though exact numbers weren’t disclosed, experts believe the North African nation will procure at least two dozen units.
The Bottom Line
Russia’s Su-35 program is entering a new phase—buoyed by external demand, bolstered by increased investment, and strategically poised between legacy and next-gen fighter platforms. While it may eventually cede the spotlight to the Su-57, for now, the Su-35 is proving that it’s still a force to be reckoned with—at home and abroad.
