In order to fulfill current state contracts, the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) has delivered a new batch of Sukhoi Su-35S fighter jets to equip the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS). The news was recently announced by the state conglomerate Rostec, which highlighted the efforts made to increase the annual aircraft production rate while also setting new targets in this regard.
According to various official reports released over the past few months, this new delivery of Su-35S combat aircraft marks the third batch provided to the VKS so far in 2025. The two previous deliveries took place in March and May.
Although no details were provided regarding the composition of this latest batch, a video released by UAC on June 25 via its official social media channels appeared to show the preparation and takeoff of three Su-35S fighters from the Komsomolsk-on-Amur production plant, the same facility also manufacturing the new fifth-generation Su-57 jets.
UAC emphasized the efforts made to optimize and maintain the pace of work at its production facilities. In the words of General Director Vadim Badekha: “We are committed to maintaining the work pace at the most in-demand aviation complexes for our Armed Forces, among which the Su-35S certainly stands out. We are also improving our production efficiency. By 2030, we plan to increase labor productivity by 30%. This work allows us, with the existing resources, to ensure higher production within the framework of the state defense order, which is growing this year and will surpass last year’s already high figures.”
Lastly, it is worth noting that the delivery of new Su-35S fighter jets, along with other aircraft models, enables the Russian Aerospace Forces to replenish the units lost throughout more than three years of conflict in Ukraine. This was underscored by the recent downing of a fighter jet earlier this month in the Kursk region, although it remains unclear whether it was shot down by a Ukrainian fighter or by air defense systems deployed in the area.
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