Myanmar has officially taken delivery of its first two Russian Su-30 fighter jets, as announced by Charlie Than, the Minister of Trade for Myanmar, in statements made to the Russian state news agency RIA and published on Sunday. According to Than, these two aircraft have already been received and are now in the country’s possession.
This acquisition follows a contract signed between Russia and Myanmar in September 2022, which stipulated the delivery of a total of six Su-30SME fighter jets, as reported by RIA. The Su-30SME, a versatile multi-role fighter jet, is designed for tasks such as engaging enemy aerial targets, conducting aerial reconnaissance, participating in combat operations, and serving as a platform for pilot training, according to information provided by Rosoboronexport, Russia’s state-controlled arms exporter.
Additionally, Minister Than disclosed to the Russian TASS state news agency that several bilateral agreements are scheduled to be inked during the Eastern Economic Forum, a significant annual event in Russia aimed at fostering economic cooperation in the region and promoting foreign investment. These agreements encompass various aspects, including the development of tourism ties between the two nations.
As of now, the Russian Ministry of Defense has not issued an immediate response to requests for comment on this matter.
It’s important to note that the United States has expressed concern over Russia’s support for Myanmar’s military leadership, considering it both unacceptable and destabilizing. This support, including the supply of weapons, is perceived as exacerbating an already dire conflict within Myanmar, leading to a humanitarian catastrophe in the country.
Notably, high-ranking Russian officials, including the Defense Minister and top diplomat, have made official visits to Myanmar, while the junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, has reciprocated with multiple visits to Russia since 2021, even receiving an honorary doctorate during one such visit.
Source: Reuters
