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Ethiopia Receives 12 Russian Fighter Jets, Plans Four S-400 Defence Systems Amid Eritrea Tensions

Ethiopia has received 12 advanced Russian Su-35 fighter jets and announced plans to acquire four S-400 air defence batteries as tensions with neighbouring Eritrea intensify.

By Babatunde Ademola Fadewo

2 min read 2 views Updated Nov 2, 2026
Ethiopia has taken delivery of 12 advanced Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets as part of efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid rising tensions with neighbouring Eritrea. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the acquisition on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, during the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, describing the development as a major step towards strengthening the country's national defence and security.

The Ethiopian leader confirmed that the aircraft were supplied under an existing military cooperation agreement with Russia. He disclosed that the jets arrived one year ahead of schedule following support from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ethiopia is also expected to receive four batteries of Russia's S-400 air defence system, which would significantly strengthen its ability to monitor and respond to aerial threats.

The acquisition comes amid renewed instability in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, where fighting between government forces and armed groups has heightened regional security concerns. Relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea have also deteriorated following allegations that Eritrea supported rebel forces operating in Tigray. Eritrea has denied the allegations, while both countries have experienced growing diplomatic and military tensions.

Speaking on the development, Abiy said the acquisition would enhance Ethiopia's capacity to defend its sovereignty and deter potential aggression. However, the Ethiopian government did not disclose the financial value of the agreement, the planned delivery date for the S-400 systems or where the new military equipment would be deployed. The Su-35 is an advanced multirole fighter aircraft designed for air superiority and other combat operations.

Meanwhile, Russia has expressed interest in encouraging dialogue between Ethiopia and Eritrea to prevent further deterioration of relations in the Horn of Africa. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated that the Russia-Africa Summit could provide an opportunity for diplomatic engagement between the neighbouring countries. The latest military acquisition highlights Ethiopia's efforts to modernise its armed forces while navigating continuing security challenges and regional tensions.
Filed under #Ethiopia #Russia #Su-35 Fighter Jets #S-400 Defence System #Abiy Ahmed #Vladimir Putin #Eritrea #Tigray Conflict #Russia-Africa Summit #African Security

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Ethiopia has received 12 advanced Russian Su-35 fighter jets and announced plans to acquire four S-400 air defence batteries as tensions with neighbouring Eritrea intensify. Ethiopia has taken delivery of 12 advanced Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets as part of efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid rising tensions with neighbouring Eritrea. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the acquisition...

Key takeaways
  • Ethiopia has received 12 advanced Russian Su-35 fighter jets and announced plans to acquire four S-400 air defence batteries as tensions with neighbouring Eritrea intensify.
  • Ethiopia has taken delivery of 12 advanced Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets as part of efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid rising tensions with neighbouring Eritrea.
  • Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the acquisition on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, during the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, describing the development as a major step towards strengthening the country's national defence and security.The Ethiopian leader confirmed that the aircraft were supplied under an existing military cooperation agreement with Russia.
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Ethiopia has received 12 advanced Russian Su-35 fighter jets and announced plans to acquire four S-400 air defence batteries as tensions with neighbouring Eritrea intensify. Ethiopia has taken delivery of 12 advanced Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets as part of efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid rising tensions with neighbouring Eritrea. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the acquisition...

Who published this story?

Glow 99.1 FM published this story with Babatunde Ademola Fadewo listed as author.

When was it published?

October 28, 2026

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