Govind Tekale
Ethiopia Says It Received 12 Su-35 Jets; S-400 Delivery Still Pending
Analysts who track Horn of Africa security have a new claim to weigh. Ethiopia says it now has 12 Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets and expects S-400 air defence systems at a later date. So far, the claim comes only from the Ethiopian government.
According to AMN, Ethiopia’s state outlet, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed made the announcement during a visit to Moscow. AMN reports that he said 12 Su-35 aircraft have been delivered. It also reports that he said four S-400 batteries are expected to follow.
If accurate, the delivery would add a modern, long-range fighter type to the Ethiopian air force. The government is presenting it as a gain in air capability. That is the government’s description, and the jets’ actual performance and readiness have not been shown.
The announcement covers two different things, and they should not be mixed up. The Su-35s are described as received. The S-400 systems are described as expected, so nothing in the reported statement says they have arrived or are operating in Ethiopia.
The source also matters. AMN is a state outlet relaying the prime minister’s words, so this is a primary government assertion. At the time of writing, Karmactive has not seen independent confirmation of the delivery. That includes any matching statement from Russian officials.
Has Ethiopia received the S-400? Not according to the reported statement. The four batteries are described as expected later.
How many Su-35s does Ethiopia say it has? Twelve, according to the state report.
The claim comes amid ongoing security concerns in the region, including disputes over land and resources. Any shift in air power there is likely to be watched closely by neighbouring states. For earlier reporting, see our coverage of regional security developments and our defence procurement news.
Several things will show how far the claim holds up:
- Whether Russia confirms the delivery and gives details of the contract.
- Whether Ethiopia publishes further information on the aircraft, such as their arrival or where they are based.
- What pilot and maintenance training is under way to support the jets.
- Whether a timeline is given for the S-400 batteries.
- How neighbouring governments respond to the announcement.
Until some of those points are confirmed, the Su-35 delivery remains Ethiopia’s own account, and the S-400 batteries remain a stated expectation.
