10-9-2023 (YANGON) Myanmar has taken delivery of two Russian Su-30 fighter jets, marking the first batch of a total of six aircraft expected to be delivered as part of a contract signed between the two countries in September 2022. The news was confirmed by Myanmar’s Trade Minister, Charlie Than, who spoke to the Russian RIA state news agency on the sidelines of the ongoing Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia.
According to Than, the two Su-30SME fighter jets have already been delivered, with the remaining four aircraft expected to arrive in the coming months. The Su-30SME is a multi-role fighter jet designed for enemy aerial target engagement, aerial reconnaissance, combat employment, and pilot training, according to Rosoboronexport, Russia’s state-controlled arms exporter.
The arrival of the Su-30 fighter jets in Myanmar comes at a time of increased tensions between Russia and the West, with the United States having imposed sanctions on Russia for its support of Myanmar’s military rulers. The US has warned that Russia’s backing for Myanmar’s military is unacceptable and destabilising, with its supply of weapons helping to fuel a conflict that has become a catastrophe for the country.
Despite these tensions, Russia and Myanmar have continued to strengthen their bilateral relations, with Myanmar’s military chief, Min Aung Hlaing, having visited Russia several times since 2021. In addition, a number of bilateral agreements are expected to be signed at the Eastern Economic Forum, including those related to developing tourism between the two countries.
