According to reports, Ethiopia is negotiating the purchase of 7 French Rafale jets, following the purchase of 12 Russian Su-35 jets. Its air force expansion includes: 12 Su-35s, first 2 delivered 4 S-400 batteries reportedly planned 7 Rafales under consideration Its existing fighter fleet consists of approximately: 16-22 Su-27 2 Su-30K purchased in 2024 9 MiG-23 1-3 Su-25 attack aircraft Most of this fleet is unserviceable. The build-up comes amid tensions with Eritrea over access to the Red Sea, renewed fighting in Tigray and conflicts with Egypt over the Grand Renaissance Dam in Ethiopia.

According to reports, Ethiopia is negotiating the purchase of 7 French Rafale jets, following the purchase of 12 Russian Su-35 jets. Its air force expansion includes: 12 Su-35s, first 2 delivered 4 S-400 batteries reportedly planned 7 Rafales under consideration Its existing fighter fleet consists of approximately: 16-22 Su-27 2 Su-30K purchased in 2024 9 MiG-23 1-3 Su-25 attack aircraft Most of this fleet is unserviceable. The build-up comes amid tensions with Eritrea over access to the Red Sea, renewed fighting in Tigray and conflicts with Egypt over the Grand Renaissance Dam in Ethiopia.