Following its presentation in Rio de Janeiro as part of the LAAD 2025 fair, Russia’s state agency Rosoboronexport continues to promote the MiG-35 fighter jet as a candidate to equip the Air Forces of South America. This is reflected in the portfolio of aircraft and military systems that the agency—part of the Rostec Corporation—is officially showcasing at SITDEF 2025, an international exhibition taking place from April 24 to 27 in Lima, Peru.
Currently, the MiG-35 is the most modern variant of the MiG-29 fighter family, with a primary focus on export to third countries. It is part of the combat aircraft offer that Russia is presenting to South American Air Forces, which also includes the Sukhoi Su-35 and the Il-76MD-90A(E) transport aircraft, the latter being a variant specifically adapted for aeromedical evacuation missions.
Despite international promotion efforts, the MiG-35 appears to have been sidelined by many air forces both regionally and globally. In the regional context, several forces are opting for Western models such as the F-16 and the Gripen, to name just a few. On the global stage, countries with close ties to Russia—such as Iran and Algeria—have chosen the Su-35S to strengthen their combat capabilities.
Returning to Rosoboronexport’s booth, located in the “Inka” pavilion, the presentation will not be limited to combat aviation and military transport aircraft. Equipment and platforms for regional armies and navies will also be showcased.
This includes proposals such as the T-90MS “Proryv” tank, the new 120mm 2S40 “Floks” gun artillery system, the 9K515 “Tornado-S” rocket launcher, and the “Kornet-EM” anti-tank missile system equipped with the new “Bulat” missile.
In the naval segment, Russia will also showcase “… the Project 22160 patrol ship, the Project 22800E ‘Karakurt-E’ missile corvette—which can be fitted with the modern Pantsir-ME system—as well as the BK-16E and BK-10 high-speed special-purpose boats.”
The Russian state agency has highlighted its historic partnership with the Armed Forces of Peru, which has taken shape through various initiatives. In the words of Alexander Mikheev, Director General of Rosoboronexport, he stated: “Peru is a long-standing and reliable partner of Rosoboronexport in the Latin American region. Russian-made aircraft, helicopters, armored vehicles, anti-tank systems, and air defense systems are successfully operated in this country. At SITDEF PERU 2025, we expect to strengthen the ties between our countries, discuss current and future joint projects, and showcase modern Russian weapons systems, as well as equipment and technology for disaster relief.”
He also mentioned the new helicopter maintenance center located in Peru, adding: “One of the main topics of discussion will be the certification and commissioning of a maintenance and repair center for Mi-brand helicopters in Peru. This facility, built under a contract with Rosoboronexport, will open in the near future and will ensure airworthiness support for Russian helicopters operated across all Latin American countries.”
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