The Russian Air Force will receive 64 Sukhoi jets under a $2.5bn deal signed by the country’s Ministry of Defence at the MAKS-2009 air show.

The air force will be delivered 48 Su-35 fighter jets, 12 Su-27SM fighters and four Su-30M2 aircraft.

The Su-35 fighter, powered by two 117S engines with thrust vectoring, combines high manoeuvrability and the capability to effectively engage several targets simultaneously.

The aircraft is equipped with a 30mm cannon with 150 rounds, and can carry up to 8t of combat payload on 12 external mounts.

Deliveries are expected to be complete by 2015.