Media: Russia may supply Su-35 fighter jets to North Korea

North Korea could become a potential future buyer of Russian Su-35 fighter jets, according to a report by the US-based Military Watch Magazine (MWM).

The publication claimed that as Russia expands production of the Su-35, speculation has grown that Pyongyang may be considered a prospective customer.

North Korea has previously shown interest in the aircraft, which could potentially replace its ageing fleet of MiG-29 and Su-25 jets. The country’s lack of modern fighter aircraft remains a key weakness in its air defence capabilities, MWM added.

According to the analysis cited by the magazine, a deal for 12–14 Su-35 aircraft could cost around $1 billion, and in the longer term, North Korea might also pursue fifth-generation Su-57M1 fighter jets.

By Jeyhun Aghazada