UK :

WOW!

One thing I have read consistently about the Su-25 is how easy it is to maintain and keep in service. Presumably, that is why so many of the type are in service around the world.

Interesting, the arabic numerals on that KC-135.

I seriously doubt they’ll forward anything to Russia on the production of J-15’s. The best Russia could hope for is to be “honored” with further sales to the PLAAF/PLAN. During the Cold War in the 20th century, this would not have worked at all. Russia would have suspended all sales/support (if any) to China.

I agree, there is nothing I can personally do about that, but it speaks to exactly who is in charge.

It is no big coincidence that the MiG-23 did not last long in service with many air arms. The aircraft it was supposed to replace often remained in service after the MiG-23. Only a few air arms fly the 23 now and probably not for very long.

FWIW, A USAF pilot was quoted as saying that he hoped the USSR would widely produce and export the MiG-23. That being the case, there would be no need to fight, the MiG-23 pilots would kill themselves flying the Flogger. USAF/USN Red Eagle pilots hated flying the MiG-23. Some rotated out of the squadron because of their distaste for the MiG-23 and its derivatives. The MiG-21 was much more well-liked than its successor.