Naypyidaw: The recent supply of 6 Sukhoi SU-30 fighter aircraft from Russia to Myanmar's military regime has raised concerns for China who fears losing its control over its neighbouring country. It is to be noted that China is currently facing major technical problem with its JF17 Thunder fighter jet, making the delivery a serious matter of concern for the country.
As part of a more extensive military partnership, Myanmar had earlier bought Russian aircraft in 2018, under deals worth $400 million. The newly commissioned SU-30 fighter jets were officially absorbed into the Myanmar Air Force on December 15, 2024, at the Meiktila Air Base in Mandalay.
According to Russia's Deputy Minister, Myanmar Air Force will make use of the SU-30 fighter aircrafts as their primary aircrafts to defend the country from terror threats and at the same time maintain its territorial integrity.
Presently, Myanmar is a going through a major civil war between its ethnic communities and the military coup which occurred in 2021. The Arakan Army representing the rebels have almost taken over the Rakhine state in Myanmar. However, with the introduction of these new Russian aircrafts, there have been reports of Myanmar Air Force launching attacks on the rebel groups.
However, the Arakan Army has significant territorial gains particularly within Rakhine State. Since the arrival of the Russian airplanes, there are reported that the Myanmar Air Force conducts airstrikes at rebel positions. This might indicate an escalation of the present conflict.
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