Myanmar receives first two Sukhoi Su-30SME Flanker fighters from Russia

Sukhoi Su-30SME fighter aircraft. Photo c/o Rosoboronexport.

Reports from Myanmar confirmed that Russia has delivered the first two of six Sukhoi Su-30SME Flanker twin-engine fighters to Myanmar in March 2022.

Myanmar press outlet The Irrawaddy reported that aside from the two new Su-30SME fighters now based in Naypyidaw, Russian pilots and technicians were also reported to be deployed in the area, as well as in the city of Mandalay.

These Russian personnel will be providing assistance to the Myanmar Air Force, and would stay during the aircraft’s warranty period.

Myanmar signed a contract for the sale of six Su-30SME fighters with Russia in 2018, together with the sale of Yakolev Yak-130 lead-in fighter trainers during a visit by Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu to Myanmar.

These new fighters are the most advanced in the Myanmar Air Force’s fleet which are mostly made up of Russia and Chinese made combat aircraft.

It was reported in 2021 that Myanmar used Sukhoi Su-30SME fighters against Kachin Independence Army (KIA) separatists, but there was no proof, and could actually be the smaller but similar-looking Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum fighter.

The sale of the fighters are part of increased military-to-military cooperation between Myanmar and Russia, with Russian military officials frequently visiting Myanmar over the last 3 years, and Myanmar supporting Russia in its invasion of Ukraine.

[1] The Irrawaddy

[2] Myanmar Now