Russia Keeps Its Most Modern Fighters Near China: Explained Why
Russia has positioned its fifth-generation fighter jets, including Su-57 and Su-35S, near the Chinese border as a strategic military move.
Recent satellite images reveal that Russia has stationed its most advanced fighter jets, including Su-57s and Su-35S multipurpose aircraft, at the Dziomgi airbase near the Amur River. This concentration of military resources signifies the base's growing importance as a tactical air power hub in the Far East. As reported by 'Militarnyi', the number of operational Su-57 aircraft remains limited, with estimates indicating around 20 to 25 units in total, including prototypes and early production models. This implies that a significant proportion of the operational fleet is strategically located at the Dziomgi base.
The Dziomgi airbase is situated close to the Gagarin aviation plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, which is part of the United Aircraft Corporation responsible for assembling Su-57 jets, indicating that this concentration of military aircraft is likely strategic rather than coincidental. Analysts suggest that some of these fighters might still be undergoing testing to enhance their combat capabilities. This move comes amid heightened regional tensions, particularly with China's military assertiveness, underscoring Russia's intent to bolster its air presence in proximity to its eastern neighbor.
The implications of Russia deploying its advanced fighter jets near China extend beyond mere military logistics. It serves as a signal to both allies and adversaries about Russia's preparedness and willingness to project power in a region where geopolitical stakes are rising. Furthermore, such military posturing could influence stability in the region and alter defense calculations for both countries involved, as well as neighboring nations concerned by the potential for increased military confrontations.