Loading…
Russia is reportedly preparing to supply Iran with 24 Su-35 fighters. Photo/REUTERS
Average Israel, channel 12,on Sunday (12/25/2022), he reported it quoting Western intelligence officials.
According to the report, the deal between Moscow and Tehran concerns as many as 24 Su-35 fighters originally destined for Egypt.
Egypt failed to acquire two dozen of these fighter jets after its deal with Russia was stymied by the United States (US).
It was the failure of the deal with Egypt that led Moscow to look for a new potential buyer, which eventually found Tehran.
Read also: Britain: Russia will give Iran advanced military components in exchange for Kamikaze drones
The reports come after Iranian media reported in September that Tehran was considering such a purchase.
Western intelligence officials have pointed out that Iranian pilots were already using Russian Su-35 fighter jets for training.
Washington has previously warned of extensive ties between Iran and Russia involving sophisticated military equipment, especially since Russian troops invaded Ukraine in February.
Both countries have been subject to harsh Western sanctions, with Iran sanctioned for its nuclear program and Russia sanctioned for its actions in Ukraine.