Ethiopia acquires Russian fighter jets amid Tigray war
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's military purchases could transform air power as fighting continues in the Tigray region.
Ethiopia has acquired Russian fighter jets and air defence systems, according to reports on October 29, 2026. The new warplanes could significantly alter the country's air capabilities.
The acquisition comes as fighting continues in the northern Tigray region, which began last month. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's military purchases raise questions about how the debt-strapped nation is funding these acquisitions.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on October 29, 2026, to discuss cooperation in nuclear energy, health, and trade during the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow.
Why it mattersEthiopia's military spending on fighter jets and air defence systems is increasing while conflict persists in the Tigray region.