Russia Has Way More Military Aircraft Than Any Eastern European Nation

"Russia boasts an air force greater than any other military power in the region. With roughly 3,800 military aircraft in its employ, the Russian military dwarfs even the second strongest aerial power in the region. Not to mention, Russia's desire for air superiority has resulted in some of the most advanced combat aircraft, particularly in its Sukhoi series. ( These countries have the most Sukhoi fighter jets.)"

"Coming out of the Cold War, Russia inherited a sizable fleet of aircraft from the Soviet Union, some of which were drastically improved upon. However, much of Russia's inherited fleet is outdated, grounded, or scrapped. Russia's modernization programs only partially offset the aging inventory. The Sukhoi Su-57 Felon is the newest fifth-generation fighter jet developed by Russia specifically for air superiority and attack roles. This jet is complemented by a modernized fleet of Su-35 Flankers and MiG-35 Fulcrums."

"Comparatively, NATO and other Eastern European countries operate smaller, albeit technologically sophisticated, air forces. Nations like Poland and Romania have invested in modern fighters such as the F-16. Though Russia has a mighty air force, NATO in its entirety (with U.S. air assets in Europe) vastly outmatches Russia. Although Russia's fleet is massive, some neighbors and NATO allies are purchasing U.S. fighter jets to rival those in the Russian fleet."

Russia fields roughly 3,800 military aircraft, the largest air force in Eastern Europe, anchored by numerous MiG and Sukhoi fighters inherited from the Soviet Union. Much of the inherited inventory is aging, grounded, or scrapped, and modernization programs only partially offset those declines. The Sukhoi Su-57 Felon is the newest fifth-generation fighter designed for air superiority and attack, supported by modernized Su-35 Flankers and MiG-35 Fulcrums. Eastern European and NATO air forces are smaller but often more technologically advanced, with countries like Poland and Romania buying F-16s. Collectively, NATO air assets in Europe, especially those of the United States, surpass Russia's capabilities.

Read at 24/7 Wall St.