The broad military cooperation between Russia and Iran and the extent of its impact on regional stability

SUMAYYA

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In the past two years, news has circulated that the Iranian Air Force is discussing purchasing SU-35 fighters from Russia, but the SU-30 was not among the plan on the agenda. This statement was issued by a senior official, the Commander of the Islamic Republic’s Air Forces, Brigadier General Hamid Vahidi, and there have been unrelated reports. Confirming reports that a number of Iranian pilots were sent to Russia for training.The way was open for Russia to export weapons to Iran after the end of the sanctions imposed by the United Nations on Iran in 2021. The Iranian side stated that an agreement had been reached on the purchase but they later concluded that Iran has the ability to produce fighter aircraft in the country. However, the authorities are studying the situation and may reconsider the purchase if necessary.The deal with Russia collapsed and there were many reasons for this, but the most plausible reason was Russia's refusal to transfer technology to produce SU-35 parts in Iran and provide knowledge for local maintenance.

Iran received permission from Russia to manufacture SU-35 and SU-30 fighters locally, which reflects a shift in Iran’s efforts to enhance its combat air capabilities. The exact number of SU-35 and SU-30 aircraft has not been determined, but this step came in the wake of the agreements reached. During the recent BRICS summit in Russia.

What are the strategic and geopolitical implications of Iran's new manufacturing capacity?

The production that Iran is planning for these aircraft could change its operational capabilities and add diversity and scope to its air force and will enable it to achieve self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imported aircraft while developing aviation technology and skills locally.Russian support for Iranian fighter production and previous transfers of the Mi-28 helicopter and the Yak-130 training aircraft demonstrate Moscow's commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership with Tehran, allowing Russia to impose its influence in the Middle East. On the other hand, Iran is working to modernize old American aircraft such as the F-4. The F-14 is through modernizing radar and missiles, which is an important process to maintain a balanced fleet capable of defensive and offensive operationsThis military cooperation between the two countries, including the transfer of combat aircraft production capabilities, could have major repercussions throughout the Middle East. For Iran, it represents an important step in self-reliance and defense independence and enhances its negotiating ability in regional geopolitics. This development could ignite a regional arms race and force neighboring countries to seek similar upgrades or partnerships to counterbalance Iran's strengthened military.

Transferring fighter manufacturing technology will give Iran's domestic defense industry more advanced knowledge and experience in the field of aviation and may provide opportunities to develop additional domestic aircraft designs in the future. Russia benefits from strengthening its relations with Iran in achieving influence in the Middle East and balancing Western alliances. This production license also gains Russia a trusted ally supportive of its interests in the region and gives Iran the strategic independence it has always sought to achieve.​



 

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