Ethiopia Takes Delivery of 12 Su-35 Fighter Jets, to Receive S-400 Air Defense Systems: PM Abiy

Addis Ababa, October 28, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has announced that the country has taken delivery of its first 12 Su-35 4++ generation fighter jets and is set to receive four batteries of S-400 air defense systems.

The Prime Minister described the move as a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen its national defense and security capabilities.

In a social media post, PM Abiy said Ethiopia’s comprehensive efforts to sustainably ensure peace and security had reached a new milestone.

He added  that the growing readiness of the country’s defense forces was enhancing its ability to deter potential aggression.

“Today, in accordance with our prior agreement with the Russian government, we have taken delivery of the first twelve Su-35 4++ Generation fighter jets,” he said, adding that Ethiopia would also receive four S-400 air defense system batteries.

 

Prime Minister Abiy expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for facilitating the delivery of the fighter jets a year ahead of the agreed schedule.

He said the acquisition places Ethiopia at the forefront of Sub-Saharan African nations in equipping itself with the advanced fighter jets.

The Prime Minister further elaborated that the development further strengthens Ethiopia’s sovereignty and enhances its defense capabilities, enabling the country to pursue its national security objectives while contributing to regional stability.

 

The announcement comes as Prime Minister Abiy arrives in Moscow, Russia, to attend the Third Russia–Africa Summit, providing an opportunity to advance Ethiopia’s engagement with Russia and other African nations.

The Prime Minister described the acquisition as a significant boost to Ethiopia’s collective security and its long-term efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and regional peace.