Iran Acquires Russian Jets, But Not the Desired Su-35 Flanker
Iran has reportedly received subsonic Yak-130 trainer jets from Russia, although these are not the Su-35 Flanker fighter jets they had hoped for. The delivery of the Yak-130s may indicate that Russia will eventually deliver the Su-35s in the future. Iran had expressed optimism about receiving the Su-35s earlier this year, but reports suggest that Russia has not fulfilled its end of the deal. The Yak-130 delivery suggests that Russia is at least delivering something to Iran after the military equipment Tehran has supplied Moscow. The Yak-130 trainers may serve as a stepping stone before acquiring fourth-generation fighters like the Su-35.