Myanmar has recently strengthened its defence ties with Russia, a move that has sparked concerns in China. The Myanmar Air Force has received six Sukhoi Su30 fighter jets from Russia. These advanced fighter jets, which were delivered under a $400 million deal signed back in 2018, were officially commissioned at Meiktila Air Base in Mandalay on December 15, 2024.
This purchase is part of Myanmar’s efforts to modernize its military, especially its air force, as the country faces growing security challenges. These new Russian-made jets are meant to help Myanmar safeguard its borders, counter terrorism, and defend against rebel groups operating in several regions. The arrival of these fighter jets marks a major shift in Myanmar’s military equipment, as it moves away from its previous reliance on Chinese-made JF-17 Thunder fighter jets.
China’s Concerns Over Russian Influence
The acquisition of Russian fighter jets has not been welcomed by everyone. China, Myanmar’s powerful neighbour to the north, has expressed concern over the growing influence of Russia in Myanmar’s defence sector. For many years, China has been Myanmar’s main defence partner, providing both military support and training. However, the growing defence ties between Myanmar and Russia seem to be changing the dynamics of the region.
China fears that its influence over Myanmar could be weakened if Russia becomes more involved in the country’s military. Myanmar shares a long border with China, and Beijing has long considered Myanmar an important ally in its efforts to strengthen its position in Southeast Asia. The presence of Russian jets in Myanmar is seen by some as a challenge to China’s dominance in the region.
Chinese social media has also been buzzing with critical comments about Russia’s growing military presence in Myanmar. Some netizens have expressed their worries that this new relationship could affect China’s strategic interests in its backyard.
The Role of the Sukhoi Su30 Fighter Jets
The Su30 SME fighter jets provided by Russia are now playing a crucial role in Myanmar’s military operations. These fighter jets are expected to serve as the primary aircraft for Myanmar’s Air Force in their efforts to protect the country’s territorial integrity and fight against various rebel groups. These jets will also help Myanmar cover its entire territory, including areas where rebel groups have gained control, particularly along the border with India.
The Su30 jets are more advanced than the previous JF-17 Thunder fighters that Myanmar had acquired from China. The Chinese JF-17 jets have been facing several technical problems, which made them less reliable in combat situations. This has led Myanmar to seek out more capable aircraft, like the Russian Su30, which are known for their power and versatility. With these new jets, Myanmar aims to enhance its ability to respond to threats and maintain control over its airspace.
The Sukhoi jets are stationed at the Naypyidaw Air Base, strategically located in Myanmar’s capital. From there, they can cover a large part of the country, providing significant air support for military operations, especially in the conflict areas. Myanmar’s Air Force sees these jets as vital tools to combat insurgent groups and secure vital territories.
Myanmar’s recent purchase of Sukhoi Su30 fighter jets from Russia has added a new layer of complexity to the country’s relationship with China. While Russia benefits from the sale of its advanced military technology, China is left questioning the future of its influence over Myanmar. As Myanmar continues to rely on both Russia and China for military support, the shifting balance of power in the region remains a key issue for all involved