Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced on October 28, 2026 that Ethiopia has taken delivery of 12 Russian Su-35 fighter jets, delivered a year early with assistance from President Vladimir Putin, and expects four S-400 air defense systems. The military buildup aims to deter aggression as a renewed offensive by a rebel alliance in the northern Tigray region rekindles security threats and triggers a diplomatic rift with neighboring Eritrea.
Details of Russian arms deliveries to Ethiopia
- ▪Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin helped ensure the delivery of the 12 Su-35 fighter jets to Ethiopia occurred one year ahead of schedule
- ▪Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that Ethiopia received 12 Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets
- ▪Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed did not disclose the financial value, scheduled delivery dates, or basing locations for the four incoming S-400 air defense systems and Su-35 aircraft being delivered to Ethiopia
- ▪Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia will receive four Russian S-400 air defense systems from Moscow following the delivery of 12 Su-35 fighter jets
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