The Russian Air Force is set to enhance combat capability with the acquisition of advanced fighter jets, bombers and helicopters, air force commander in chief Colonel General Zelin has said.

The air force will increase the number of air bases from eight to 14 by 2020, and set up a new pilot group in addition to the current ‘Strizhi’ and ‘Russian Knights’.

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The new pilot group will use Yak-130 training and combat jets.

According to Zelin, Russia is slated to receive A-100 advanced airborne warning and control system aircraft by 2016, or even earlier.

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