Iran building shelters likely for Russian Su-35s: Defense Express reveals satellite images
Illustrative photo: Russia may transfer Su-35S to Iran (Getty Images)
Iran may be building shelters for Russian Su-35S fighter jets. Corresponding satellite images have emerged, Defense Express informs.
The news agency noted that a satellite image from September 2024 shows the construction of arch-shaped shelters at the third tactical airbase in Iran, located near the city of Hamadan.
Photo: shelters for Su-35 in Iran (defence-ua.com)
According to Defense Express, the size of these shelters is approximately 25 meters by 30 meters. Such shelters are too large for the F-4 Phantom aircraft based there but are suitable for the Su-35S.
Journalists also point out the rationale behind Iran's actions, as, since 2013, the country has been building underground shelters at the Eagle 44 airbase, which was commissioned last year.
Initially, F-4 Phantoms were likely intended for deployment there, but some time later, a satellite image of the airbase showed a mock-up of the Su-35S. This suggests that Iran intended to adapt Eagle 44 for Russian aircraft.
However, it remains unclear when exactly the delivery of Su-35S to Iran will begin.
It is worth noting that the Su-35 is a Russian multirole fourth-generation fighter. It can fly at speeds of up to 2,500 kilometers per hour, is equipped with missiles, and features 30-mm cannons.
Iran to receive Su-35
Back in November of last year, it became known that Iran had reached an agreement with Russia on the supply of Su-35s.
Additionally, under the agreements between the countries, Iran is set to receive Mi-28 attack helicopters and Yak-130 training aircraft.
