Russia delivers third batch of Su-35S fighters and unveils AI radar

Russia has completed its third delivery of Su-35S multirole fighter jets in 2026. Produced by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) at the Yuri Gagarin Aviation Plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, the aircraft underwent comprehensive factory testing before being transferred to the Russian Aerospace Forces.

While the exact number of aircraft in this batch remains undisclosed, visual documentation indicates at least two fighters were included. This follows previous deliveries in April and May of this year. The Su-35S is a 4++ generation fighter designed for air superiority, reconnaissance, and precision strikes against ground and maritime targets.

In parallel with aircraft deliveries, the state defense conglomerate Rostec, through its subsidiary Ruselectronics, has introduced the Sokol-08. This is a new AI-powered mobile radar station designed to detect and track drone swarms and small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Sokol-08 is part of a broader digital air defense ecosystem capable of integrating with various detection and interception systems.