Muslim Nation gets Russia’s most powerful weapon—will trump respond to Radar-defeating technology?

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a significant escalation of military ties between Iran and Russia Tehran has acquired Sukhoi-35 fighter jets from Moscow prompting concerns among Western nations about the strengthening alliance between the two nations. The purchase comes at a time of rising tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel, further intensifying the geopolitical landscape. Ali Shadmani, Deputy Coordinator of Iran's Khatam-al-Anbiya, confirmed the acquisition but did not disclose the number of jets or whether they had been delivered yet. He emphasized that military purchases are made when necessary to enhance Iran's air, ground and naval forces. This acquisition follows a deal announced in November 2023, where Iran reportedly secured Russian fighter jets. By January 2025, the two nations solidified their alliance with a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, which although it did not explicitly mention arms transfers, highlighted the intention to strengthen military and technical cooperation. The timing of this agreement is critical, as Russia’s international influence has been diminished by its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while Iran faces mounting challenges from Western sanctions and growing tensions with Israel. The deepening cooperation between Tehran and Moscow gained further momentum after the collapse of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, a key event that strengthened their partnership.

This new military alliance raises questions about the future of Middle Eastern geopolitics with Iran and Russia potentially becoming a more formidable force in the region. For the US and its allies the growing ties between these two nations signal a complex challenge as both Iran and Russia navigate their shifting global roles. As the situation develops, the global community watches closely, especially in light of Iran's expanding military capabilities. What role will the US and its allies play in countering this new phase of Iranian-Russian cooperation? Time will tell how these changes will impact the balance of power in the Middle East and beyond.