Algeria has officially joined the ranks of advanced airpower operators with the induction of Russian-made Sukhoi Su-35 (Flanker-E) multirole fighters into its air force. This development, confirmed by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) on April 8, 2025, marks a significant enhancement of Algeria’s military capabilities.
High-resolution satellite imagery captured on March 10, 2025, reveals at least one Su-35 stationed at Ain Beida/Oum el Bouaghi Air Base in northeastern Algeria. The aircraft prominently displays the Algerian Air Force’s national roundel on its upper port wing, underscoring its operational status within the force.
This acquisition traces back to a discreet agreement with Russia, reportedly signed in 2018, for 24 Su-35 units. The Su-35 is renowned for its agility, thrust-vectoring capabilities, and advanced Irbis-E radar system, positioning it as a formidable 4.5-generation fighter. The integration of these aircraft is expected to significantly bolster Algeria’s aerial strike capabilities and deterrence posture amid regional instability in North Africa and the Sahel.
The Su-35s now in Algeria were initially part of a procurement deal with Egypt. However, geopolitical pressures, notably threats of U.S. sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), impeded their delivery to Cairo. Consequently, these undelivered aircraft were redirected to Algeria, reflecting Moscow’s adaptability in reallocating military assets to aligned partners.
Parallel to Algeria’s induction, Iran has also expressed interest in acquiring Su-35 fighters to modernize its aging air force. In January 2025, Iranian officials confirmed the purchase of 24 Su-35 jets from Russia, with deliveries anticipated within three months. However, as of April 2025, there have been no confirmed deliveries. Iran’s Defense Minister, Mohammad-Reza Gharaei Ashtiani, indicated that the country might focus on domestic production of combat aircraft, suggesting potential challenges or shifts in the procurement process.
The induction of Su-35 fighters into the Algerian Air Force signifies a notable shift in the regional military balance. For Algeria, these advanced aircraft enhance its air superiority and serve as a deterrent amid regional tensions. For Russia, the successful redirection and delivery of these fighters underscore its role as a key military supplier and its strategic partnerships in the region.
As Algeria integrates the Su-35 into its air force, the focus will be on training pilots and support crews to maximize the capabilities of these advanced fighters. This development is poised to have lasting implications for regional security dynamics in North Africa and beyond.
High-resolution satellite imagery has played a pivotal role in confirming the presence of Su-35s in Algeria. On March 10, 2025, imagery revealed at least one Su-35 stationed at Ain Beida/Oum el Bouaghi Air Base in northeastern Algeria. The aircraft displayed the Algerian Air Force’s national roundel on its upper port wing, underscoring its operational status within the force.
This revelation builds upon earlier evidence from March 2, 2025, showing a Russian Air Force Antonov An-124 strategic airlifter loading a Su-35 airframe at the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Plant. The aircraft bore a camouflage pattern closely resembling that originally commissioned by Egypt, indicating a redirection of military assets.
The Su-35s now in Algeria were initially part of a procurement deal with Egypt. In 2018, Cairo and Moscow reached an agreement worth approximately $3 billion for the acquisition of a fleet of Su-35 fighter jets. However, geopolitical pressures, notably threats of U.S. sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), impeded their delivery to Cairo. Consequently, these undelivered aircraft were redirected to Algeria, reflecting Moscow’s adaptability in reallocating military assets to aligned partners.
Zona Militar
The induction of Su-35 fighters into the Algerian Air Force signifies a notable shift in the regional military balance. The Su-35 is renowned for its exceptional agility, thrust-vectoring capabilities, and advanced Irbis-E radar system, positioning it as a formidable 4.5-generation fighter. The integration of these aircraft is expected to significantly bolster Algeria’s aerial strike capabilities and deterrence posture amid regional instability in North Africa and the Sahel.
Algeria’s acquisition of the Su-35 aligns with its broader strategy to modernize its military forces. Reports indicate that Algeria has also expressed interest in Russia’s fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57 “Felon” stealth fighters. A recent report aired by Algeria’s state television confirms that the North African country has officially acquired Russia’s new fifth-generation aircraft.
The acquisition of advanced fighter jets by Algeria may influence regional dynamics, particularly in relation to neighboring countries and their military capabilities. While Algeria has bolstered its air force with the Su-35, other nations in the region are also pursuing modern military assets, potentially leading to shifts in the balance of power.
As Algeria continues to enhance its military capabilities, the focus will likely be on integrating these advanced systems into its existing defense infrastructure and training personnel to operate and maintain them effectively. The successful deployment of the Su-35 and potential future acquisitions will play a crucial role in shaping Algeria’s defense strategy in the coming years.
Algeria’s induction of the Sukhoi Su-35 fighters represents a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to modernize its military forces. This move not only enhances Algeria’s defense capabilities but also reflects the complex geopolitical landscape influencing military procurements and alliances in the region.
