Iran May Be Training Pilots for Sukhoi Su-35 and Su-57 Jets

Training flights of Russian-made Yak-130 aircraft over Tehran may signal Iran's preparations to receive advanced Su-35 fighters and potentially even fifth-generation Su-57 jets, according to Military Watch Magazine. Yak-130 Seen as Step Toward Su-35 Acquisition The Western publication reports that the Yak-130 is the most modern combat aircraft Iran has received from Moscow in the past 35 years. Analysts believe Tehran's decision to procure the aircraft stemmed from the need to train pilots for the operation of new Su-35 fighters. "The decision to procure this aircraft is believed to have been motivated by the need to prepare pilots for the operation of new Su-35 fighters, deliveries of which were reportedly expected to begin in late 2026.” Military Watch Magazine The magazine also does not rule out the possibility that Iran could eventually receive Russia's fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jets.