Countries Operating Russian Fighter Jets: A Global Overview

The landscape of military aviation reveals a significant presence of Russian fighter jets across numerous countries. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the Russian Federation continued the tradition of exporting military aircraft, leading to a widespread deployment of these jets globally. Nations from Algeria to Vietnam utilize a variety of models produced by key manufacturers, including the Russian Aircraft Corporation, commonly known as MiG, and the JSC Sukhoi Company.

Key Russian Fighter Jet Models and Their Global Reach

The Russian military aviation industry has seen many aircraft models enter service since World War II. Among the most notable are the MiG-29 and the Sukhoi Su-27, both of which are still actively used by various countries. According to the World Air Forces 2025 report, several nations continue to operate older models such as the MiG-21, which first took flight in 1955. Countries like India and Syria maintain these older aircraft, with India operating 36 and Syria possessing 50.

The Sukhoi Su-27, introduced in the mid-1980s, remains in service with countries including Angola, Belarus, and Vietnam. Notably, China has an unspecified number of Su-27s, with 39 reportedly used for training purposes. The presence of these older models highlights the long-term reliance on Russian technology in various regions.

Modern Fighters and Ongoing Orders

In addition to older aircraft, Russia has introduced modern fighters like the Sukhoi Su-35 and the Su-57, the latter being Russia’s most advanced fighter jet. Despite ongoing sanctions and challenges faced by the aerospace industry, there remains interest from several countries. For instance, Algeria operates 52 Su-30s with an additional 10 on order, showcasing a continued investment in Russian military technology.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has also expressed interest in acquiring 25 Su-35 jets, although the status of this order remains uncertain amid ongoing geopolitical developments. Similarly, India maintains the largest fleet of Su-30s globally, with 265 active units, exemplifying the strong ties between Russia and several key nations.

Challenges for the Russian aerospace sector have emerged as the country focuses military resources on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This has resulted in a decrease in the export of aircraft, impacting the availability of new models for countries looking to modernize their fleets.

In conclusion, Russian fighter jets remain a critical component of military aviation for numerous countries worldwide. From the enduring legacy of older models like the MiG-21 to the introduction of advanced fighters like the Su-57, the impact of Russian aviation continues to shape global military dynamics. As nations evaluate their defense capabilities, the role of Russian fighter jets remains significant despite the complexities of international relations.