In a move to solidify national security, Ethiopia has taken delivery of 12 Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets, marking a significant upgrade to the nation's defensive capabilities.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, speaking from the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, hailed the arrival of the advanced combat technology as a vital milestone for the country’s survival in a volatile region.
The acquisition, part of a long-standing agreement, includes plans for four S-400 air defense systems, providing Ethiopia with the ability to neutralize threats from up to 200 kilometers away.
As the nation grapples with internal instability in the Tigray region and broader geopolitical tensions—including disputes over sea access—Abiy emphasized that a country must be prepared to defend its sovereignty or face the consequences.
Military analysts note that these assets, which complement Ethiopia’s existing drone fleet, provide the strategic air superiority necessary to protect critical infrastructure, such as the Renaissance Dam.
While critics may focus on the ongoing internal conflict with the Tigray People's Liberation Front, the Ethiopian government remains clear: building a formidable military is not a luxury, but a necessity for any nation that intends to remain independent in a dangerous neighborhood.
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