Why is Russia sending fighter jets and air defences to Ethiopia?

Ethiopia has received 12 Russian Su-35 fighter jets and plans to acquire four S-400 air defence batteries, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced in Moscow during the Russia-Africa Summit. The systems will strengthen Ethiopia’s armed forces as the country faces conflict in Tigray and tensions with Eritrea. Experts say the deal extends decades of military cooperation, giving Moscow arms revenue and diplomatic influence in the Horn of Africa. The S-400s could help counter conventional aerial threats, including Eritrean aircraft and drones.