Algeria Enhances Air Power with Su-35 Fighter Jets

Algeria’s Air Force has reportedly begun receiving its first Russian Su-35 heavy fighter jets, marking a significant upgrade to its military capabilities. This acquisition makes Algeria the third operator of this advanced aircraft model worldwide, following only China and Russia. The addition of these sophisticated fighters represents a substantial boost to Algeria’s air combat capabilities and regional military standing.

According to information published by the Algerian Star Ship account, footage allegedly showing Algerian Su-35s conducting training flights was captured near Oum El Bouaghi Air Base. Aviation experts note that these aircraft appear to be from the batch originally manufactured for Egypt, whose order was canceled in 2018 due to potential economic sanctions from the United States under the CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act).

Geopolitical Implications

The journey of these particular Su-35 fighters involves a complex web of international relations. Initially, after Egypt’s cancellation, the jets were reportedly slated for transfer to Iran as part of an exchange deal involving ballistic missiles and drones. However, this transaction appears to have fallen through, or possibly Tehran acquired only a portion of the batch. Russia ultimately found a new home for the remaining Su-35s in Algeria.

Interestingly, Algeria had not originally planned to acquire Su-35s, as its military procurement strategy was focused on the more advanced Su-57. However, military analysts suggest that Russia likely offered these fighters at a highly competitive price to mitigate losses from other canceled export contracts, making them an attractive proposition for Algeria.

Strategic Enhancement

The Algerian Armed Forces have long been major operators of Russian military equipment, with its Air Force ranking among the most powerful in North Africa. The existing fleet includes MiG-29, Su-24, and Su-30MKA fighters, forming the backbone of Algeria’s air defense system.

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The Su-35 represents a significant technological leap over Algeria’s current main air superiority fighter, the Su-30MKA. Key improvements include more powerful engines, an advanced radar system, and superior overall performance characteristics. Additionally, these new fighters are compatible with Russia’s latest air-to-air and air-to-surface weaponry, further enhancing Algeria’s air power projection capabilities.

This acquisition comes amid an ongoing arms race with regional rival Morocco, as both nations vie for military dominance in North Africa. Military experts suggest that Algeria’s procurement of Su-35s could potentially shift the balance of air power in the region and prompt responsive military acquisitions from neighboring countries.

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