Iranian officials have refuted recent media claims regarding the imminent arrival of new Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets to Iran.
Contrary to reports circulating in Iranian media suggesting the country's imminent acquisition of the latest aircraft models, Fararu news website has clarified that such reports are inaccurate.
The initial reports stemmed from an article by the SNN news agency, known for its close ties to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. However, the agency later retracted the article on its Telegram page following consultations with the Ministry of Defence.
Last year, Iran's Ministry of Defence had announced the procurement of Mi-28H combat helicopters and Yak-130s from Russia, alongside the Su-35 fighter jets. Despite these announcements, Fararu indicates that the delivery of the aircraft was stalled due to objections from Israel, Iran's long-standing adversary, and certain Arab states in the Persian Gulf.
Unofficial sources suggested that the deal was intended to include a total of 24 new fighter jets.
In the wake of the 2015 Vienna nuclear deal's collapse and the subsequent continuation of Western sanctions against Iran, the country has deepened its ties with Moscow. Reports also suggest Iranian support for Russia in providing military logistics during the conflict in Ukraine.
Notably, Western nations have accused Iran of supplying Russia with "kamikaze drones," purportedly used in the Ukrainian conflict, an allegation Tehran vehemently denies. The resulting accusations have led to sanctions against both Iran and Russia.
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