Why Iran's military aircraft deal with Russia is significant leap for both
Tehran receives the equipment as it continues to boost a military alliance with Moscow that has come under the international spotlight and scrutiny since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
TEHRAN — Iran's Deputy Defense Minister Brig. Gen. Mehdi Farahi said Tehran has finalized a deal with Moscow under which Iranian armed forces will get Russia-manufactured Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, Yakovlev Yak-130 training aircraft and Mil Mi-28 attack helicopters.
Farahi told the state-run Tasnim News Agency on Tuesday that the imports were already taking place but did not elaborate on the precise numbers of purchased equipment.
According to Tasnim, Iran's armed forces will be using the Yak-130 aircraft in training courses. The light, subsonic two-seat plane will be flown by Iranian pilots specializing in 4-plus new generation aircraft such as the Sukhoi Su-57, whose combat maneuvering the Yak-130 is capable of simulating.
The Mil Mi-28 attack helicopter, nicknamed the "Night Hunter," is equipped with a turboshaft twin engine, two heavily armored cockpits and a windshield able to resist bullets within the 12.7-14.5 mm caliber range. The chopper is able to fly up to 320 kilometers (200 miles) per hour.
