Iran has received the first Russian Yak-130 training aircraft ahead of deliveries of Su-35 fourth-generation fighters

It looks like Iran will get Russian Su-35 fighters after all. This is hinted at by deliveries of Yak-130 combat trainer aircraft.

Here's What We Know

Iranian news agency Tasnim reports that Iran has started to receive Yak-130 aircraft. The number has not yet been specified. It is believed that they will be used to train pilots of fourth-generation Su-35 fighters.

The Islamic Republic's Air Force has received several of the planes, which will be stationed at the Shahid Babai airfield. The source writes that the Yak-130 can be used to train pilots of fighter jets of generations 4++ and 5.

Information that Russia wants to sell Su-35 aircraft to Iran appeared almost a year ago. However, the exact details of the deal are still unknown. According to some reports, the payment for the fighter jets may be Shahed-131 and Shahed-136 kamikaze drones, which Russia uses to bombard Ukraine.

In March 2023, the Iranians said a deal was imminent. At the same time, in the summer it was reported that due to Russia's unwillingness to transfer technology, Iran was considering abandoning the Su-35.

As for the Russian fighter jets, they were originally intended for Egypt. However, due to the risk of falling under American sanctions, the African country refused the deal.

Source: Tasnim