# Why is Russia sending fighter jets and air defences to Ethiopia?

https://mins.news/en/item/120730

- Al Jazeera, 2026-10-29 12:32 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/10/29/why-is-russia-sending-fighter-jets-and-air-defences-to-ethiopia?traffic_source=rss

> Ethiopia has received 12 Russian Su-35 fighter jets and is set to acquire four S-400 air defence batteries. Experts say the deal strengthens Ethiopia’s military amid domestic conflict and tensions with Eritrea, while bringing Moscow arms revenue and greater diplomatic influence in the Horn of Africa.

## Related coverage

- [Ethiopia acquires Russian fighter jets and air defence systems amid Tigray war](https://mins.news/en/item/120435) — BBC News, 2026-10-29
- [Ethiopia receives 12 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia, prime minister says](https://mins.news/en/item/119130) — TASS, 2026-10-28