Moscow sends new SU-57 stealth jets to Syria SU-35 and SU-25 also returning

(ANSAmed) - MOSCOW, FEBRUARY 22 - Russia has deployed two fifth-generation SU-57 stealth fighters to its Khmeimim air base in Syria, according to Russian online daily Meduza, citing blogger Wael Al Hussaini, who published a video on Twitter showing the two fighter jets.



The SU-57 jets are the Russian air force's "crown jewels", and Moscow allegedly also sent four SU-35 jets, four SU-25 jets, and one A-50U reconnaissance aircraft.



The Russian Defence Ministry has not issued a statement.



Russian-language business daily Vedomosti said the deployment of the jets, along with the A-50U, should be "read not only as a desire to test the jets on the battlefield, but also as a show of Russia's determination to support the (Syrian) government forces' operation in Ghouta".



The A-50U was pulled last December after Russian President Vladimir Putin declared "mission accomplished" in Syria.



The return of the SU-35 and SU-25 jets are a de facto rebuilding of Russia's core air power in Syria.(ANSAmed).



