On 1 November 2025, the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), part of the Rostec state conglomerate, delivered the sixth batch of Su-35S multirole fighters to the Russian Aerospace Forces. Open-source counts indicate this is the sixth reported delivery in 2025, reflecting an accelerated production pace with direct implications for force readiness and procurement timelines.
Key Features of the Su-35S
The Su-35S is a heavily modernized evolution of the Su-27 family, optimized for air superiority while retaining strike and maritime engagement capabilities.
- Twin engines with thrust-vectoring nozzles for high maneuverability
- Long-range radar and advanced sensor suite
- Ability to employ long-range air-to-air missiles and precision-guided air-to-ground weapons
- Day-and-night operations in adverse weather
Russian officials describe the aircraft as reliable and versatile, capable of performing tasks from regional air defense to expeditionary combat missions.
Industrial and Operational Advantages
The Su-35S program used a proven airframe with upgraded avionics and propulsion, allowing rapid serial production and cost control.
This accelerated production enables:
- Faster squadron formation
- Rapid replacement of aircraft lost or worn in operations
- A larger pool of mission-ready fighters for commanders
Compared to contemporary fourth-generation Western fighters, the Su-35S remains competitive in thrust-to-weight ratio, range, and maneuverability, while offering high sortie generation and quick integration of long-range weapons.
Strategic and Regional Implications
The delivery of six Su-35S batches in a single year strengthens Russia’s regional airpower:
- Enhances protection of critical infrastructure and airspace
- Complicates NATO and neighboring countries’ air defense planning
- Supports layered deterrence with a large and modern fighter inventory
Rapid deliveries shorten unit fielding times, improve operational flexibility, and influence deterrence calculations in Europe, the Arctic, and adjacent theaters.
