Can New Jets Patch Air Defense Holes and Deter Future Israeli Strikes?

A Boost or a Band-Aid?

Iran's air force is finally set to receive the advanced Su-35 fighter jets it has long sought from Russia. While this acquisition marks a significant upgrade for Iran's aging fleet, analysts remain skeptical about its ability to fully address the vulnerabilities exposed by recent Israeli airstrikes.

The Su-35s bring potent capabilities to the table, including enhanced maneuverability, a powerful radar system, and the potential for beyond-visual-range missiles. These features could significantly bolster Iran's air defense and offensive capabilities, posing a threat to Western aircraft and even Israel's F-35s.

However, experts caution that the Su-35s alone cannot compensate for the damage inflicted on Iran's air defenses. The loss of S-300 systems leaves significant gaps in ground-based protection, which the Su-35s cannot fully replace. Additionally, integrating these new jets into Iran's existing network and training pilots will take time, further delaying their full impact.

Furthermore, Israel's demonstrated ability to neutralize Iranian air defenses with stealthy F-35s and long-range missiles raises concerns about the Su-35s' vulnerability on the ground. Preemptive strikes could potentially cripple these new acquisitions before they become fully operational.

In conclusion, while the Su-35s represent a significant step forward for Iran's airpower, their effectiveness remains contingent on addressing broader vulnerabilities in its air defense network. The true impact of these jets will depend on their integration, pilot training, and the ability to withstand potential Israeli countermeasures.