In a bold move to expand its influence in the Middle Eastern aerospace market, Moscow has initiated discussions with several Arab nations regarding a potential deal involving its fifth-generation fighter jets. The announcement came from a representative of Rosoboronexport, Russia’s state-owned arms export agency, during the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) held in Abu Dhabi from February 23 to 27, 2025. The biennial event, one of the region’s most prominent defense showcases, provided the perfect stage for Russia to pitch its advanced military technology to a receptive audience of Gulf states eager to modernize their air forces. While the talks have generated significant interest, they remain in the preliminary stages, with no formal agreements yet in place as of late February 2025.
.gif)
The fifth-generation jets in question are Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 and the newer Su-75 Checkmate, both of which represent Moscow’s latest advancements in stealth, avionics, and combat capabilities. The Su-57, already operational with the Russian Air Force, boasts supercruise abilities and a low radar cross-section, positioning it as a competitor to Western fighters like the American F-35 Lightning II. The Su-75, unveiled in 2021 as a lighter, more affordable option, is still in development but has been marketed aggressively as a customizable platform for export. Rosoboronexport’s proposal goes beyond mere sales, suggesting a cooperative venture that could involve joint production and integration of local technologies, appealing to Arab countries seeking greater industrial autonomy in their defense sectors. This approach aligns with the Gulf’s broader trend of diversifying military suppliers amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
The Arab nations involved in these discussions have not been officially named, though speculation points to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and possibly Algeria, given their histories of engaging with Russian arms manufacturers. The UAE, for instance, has previously explored Russian fighter jets, signing an agreement in 2017 to collaborate on a light fifth-generation aircraft, though that project stalled. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has been vocal about its desire for advanced fighters to counter regional threats, particularly from Iran, which has deepened its own military ties with Moscow in recent years. Algeria, a long-standing buyer of Russian hardware, confirmed a deal for Su-57s in 2019, with deliveries expected by 2026. These nations share a common interest in reducing reliance on Western suppliers, particularly the United States, whose export restrictions and political conditions have frustrated some Gulf leaders.
Despite the enthusiasm from Moscow, several hurdles stand in the way of a finalized deal. Western sanctions imposed on Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine have severely hampered its defense industry, limiting access to critical components like avionics and microelectronics. This has slowed production of both the Su-57 and Su-75, raising doubts about Russia’s ability to deliver on large-scale export contracts in a timely manner. Furthermore, the lack of public confirmation from any Arab government suggests caution on their part, possibly due to concerns over reliability or the geopolitical risks of aligning too closely with Moscow. The United States, a dominant player in the region’s arms market, has historically pressured allies to avoid Russian systems, as seen with Turkey’s expulsion from the F-35 program after purchasing the S-400 air defense system. For now, the talks remain exploratory, with Rosoboron export emphasizing the partnership's technological and economic benefits. The prospect of co-producing fifth-generation jets could bolster local industries in the Gulf, offering jobs and expertise while enhancing military capabilities. Yet, the absence of concrete commitments underscores the speculative nature of the initiative. As of February 27, 2025, no timelines, costs, or specific models have been locked in, leaving analysts questioning whether this pitch will translate into action or fade like previous Russian overtures in the region. The IDEX discussions signal Moscow’s determination to challenge Western dominance in Middle Eastern skies, but turning rhetoric into reality will require overcoming significant logistical and diplomatic challenges in the months ahead.