Ethiopia acquires 12 advanced fighter jets and S-400 air defence systems from Russia

Ethiopia acquires 12 advanced fighter jets and S-400 air defence systems from Russia - Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during the handover ceremony for 12 Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets, marking a major boost to the country's air combat capabilities. (Photo: Handout)

The delivery of 12 Su-35 fighter jets and four S-400 air defence batteries strengthens Ethiopia's military capabilities amid rising tensions with Eritrea over Red Sea access.

Ethiopia has made a major military leap, acquiring 12 advanced Russian fighter jets and four S-400 air defence system batteries in a move that could reshape the balance of power in the volatile Horn of Africa.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced on Tuesday that the country had received the Su-35 4++ generation fighter jets and the advanced air defence systems from Moscow, a year ahead of the expected delivery schedule.

“Our comprehensive efforts to sustainably ensure our country's peace and security have reached a new milestone today,” Premier Abiy wrote on X, adding that the hardware had arrived a full year ahead of schedule.

The early delivery followed a personal agreement between Abiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Abiy described the acquisition as a major step towards strengthening Ethiopia's defence capabilities, arguing that the new equipment would help the country deter potential aggression.

“The state of readiness being built within Ethiopia's defense forces is endowing the nation with the capability to preemptively deter aggression," he stated, thanking Putin for his "dedication."

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He further noted that “Ethiopia has taken the lead among Sub-Saharan African nations.”

The acquisition comes amid rising tensions between Ethiopia and neighbouring Eritrea over access to the Red Sea, adding a new dimension to security dynamics in the Horn of Africa.

The advanced fighter jets and air defence systems are expected to significantly boost Ethiopia's aerial combat and defensive capabilities, potentially shifting the regional military balance.