The Russian Air Force is moving ahead with its re-equipment programme, air force commander-in-chief General Alexander Zelin has said.

The development comes despite unresolved questions about funding and deliveries of equipment.

The air force, which expects to field 120 Su-34 strike aircraft and has received six of the aircraft, is in need for a small, light fighter aircraft, but “the Su-35 is our priority,” Zelin said.

Russia expects to receive its first Il-476 transport aircraft in 2013, according to RIA Novosti.

The Russian Air Force also has plans to operate its stealth fighter T-50 in 2014-15 which, however, has been dubbed ‘a racy schedule’.