Anticipated Arrival of Four Additional Russian Aircraft for Belarusian Air Force in 2022
In August 2025, Belarus strengthens its air force with deliveries of both Su-30SM and the more advanced Su-30SM2 fighter aircraft from Russia. The country currently operates approximately four Su-30SMs and four Su-30SM2s, significantly augmenting its air force.
The Su-30SM2, the latest variant, boasts several improvements. These include the N035 Irbis radar, AL-41F1S engines from the Su-35, upgraded avionics, extended target detection range, and an expanded weapon load. These enhancements allow the Su-30SM2 to fulfill multi-role missions, including acting as an airborne command and control platform, conducting long-range interception, carrying out precision deep strikes, and effectively denying enemy air superiority in contested environments.
Belarusian pilots and technicians have completed conversion training, enabling the Su-30SM2 to be rapidly integrated into quick reaction alert duties, with ongoing training to expand operational readiness.
Strategically, Belarus depends heavily on Russia for these advanced fighters due to a lack of indigenous industrial and maintenance capabilities. This creates a relationship of asymmetric dependence, embedding Belarus into Russia’s Union State defense framework with coordinated joint exercises, synchronized air defense planning, and integrated modernization programs.
In other news, Andrei Lukyanovich announced the arrival of new aircraft and 12 Mi-35M helicopters in the country. However, the role of aviation in the current conditions is not specified. Furthermore, no information is provided about the increase in flights of unmanned aerial vehicles and reconnaissance and tactical aviation on the western borders of the country.
Over 800 airspace usage violations have been recorded since the beginning of the year, but it is unclear if any of these violations occurred after May or August when the Su-30SM2 aircraft were delivered. The first two Su-30SM2 aircraft arrived in May 2025, with another two arriving in August. Belarus received the fourth batch of Su-30SM aircraft in 2024, instead of the expected end of 2022.
As Belarus continues to modernize its air combat capability with state-of-the-art Russian fighters, it improves both defensive and offensive reach amid increasing regional tensions. The Su-30SM2, with its new engines, improved radar system, and expanded weapon capabilities, is a key part of this modernization effort.
The Su-30SM2's advanced features allow it to perform various roles, such as conducting long-range interceptions and carrying out precision deep strikes, thereby enhancing Belarus' offensive reach. As Belarus continues to receive and integrate Su-30SM2s into its air force, sports events may now need to consider potential friendly skies, given the fighter jets' multirole capabilities.
