On November 1, Algeria commemorated the 70th anniversary of its historic revolution with a grand military parade, showcasing its military strength and celebrating its hard-won sovereignty. The anniversary, marking the beginning of Algeria’s independence struggle in 1954, was made memorable by the appearance of a surprising relic from the Cold War era: the MiG-25 fighter jet, long believed to have been retired.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune presided over the event, where he paid tribute to the spirit of resistance that fueled Algeria’s fight against colonialism and reaffirmed the country’s dedication to peace and sovereignty. “Algeria, which once overcame colonialism, continues its path of victories with confidence,” Tebboune declared in his address. He assured the audience that Algeria’s military force, while powerful, remains strictly defensive and committed to fostering peace.
The military parade drew significant attention, not only for its modern weaponry but for a rare appearance of the Soviet-era MiG-25 fighter jets, stirring intrigue and admiration both locally and internationally.
Algeria’s struggle for independence is commemorated every year on November 1, a date that recalls the beginning of the National Liberation Front (FLN)’s armed insurrection against French colonial rule. This year, Algeria marked seven decades since that fateful day in 1954, when the FLN launched coordinated attacks against French forces and declared their desire for an independent Algerian state.
The FLN’s uprising escalated into a brutal eight-year war with France, one marked by guerrilla tactics, urban battles, and a commitment to liberation that ultimately rallied international support for Algeria’s cause. The revolution ended in 1962 with Algeria’s independence, after years of bloodshed, political maneuvering, and a breakdown of French colonial control.
The anniversary event reflected the enduring pride Algerians feel for their revolutionary past. Military demonstrations showcased the strength of the modern Algerian army, with T-90 tanks, long-range submarines, air defense systems, and advanced fighter jets such as the Su-30 and MiG-29. However, the appearance of the MiG-25 ‘Foxbat’—a relic of Cold War aviation technology—added a historic dimension to the celebration.
The MiG-25’s role in this year’s celebrations astonished military enthusiasts. Social media lit up when Tony Osborne, European Defence Editor at Aviation Week, posted a photograph showing two MiG-25 jets in formation over the parade grounds. “Wow, #Algeria got a couple of its MiG-25s #Foxbat flying again to help celebrate the November 1 Revolution,” Osborne wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “It was thought these had been retired, as they were the last MiG-25s operational anywhere in the world.”
Algeria acquired its first MiG-25s in 1979, making it the first export customer for the aircraft, renowned for its speed and high-altitude capabilities. Over the years, the country operated various models of the MiG-25, including the interceptor and reconnaissance variants, which were crucial for surveillance and air patrol missions during periods of regional tension.
The MiG-25 is one of the fastest and highest-flying jets ever built. Its record-breaking altitude of 38 kilometers and unmatched speed earned it a unique place in aviation history. Although technically decommissioned by Algeria in 2022, its brief return for the 70th anniversary marked a nostalgic nod to a past era in aviation and Algeria’s military history.
Over the years, Algeria’s air force has seen extensive modernization, adapting to geopolitical changes and technological advances. Initially reliant on Soviet aircraft like the MiG-25, Algeria later introduced modern Russian-made fighter jets, including the Su-30MKA—a model designed specifically to meet Algeria’s defensive needs. The Su-30 boasts advanced avionics and maneuverability, making it a mainstay in Algeria’s air defense strategy.
The country’s current inventory includes around 70 Su-30s, along with a formidable lineup of MiG-29s, Su-34 Fencers, and Su-24 bombers, which provide Algeria with an array of strategic capabilities. Reports indicate that Algeria is also in line to potentially receive Russia’s fifth-generation Su-57 stealth fighter, a testament to its pursuit of cutting-edge defense technology.
However, the reappearance of the MiG-25 in this year’s parade underscores Algeria’s unique position in balancing a commitment to historical legacy with an eye toward modern defense needs.
The military parade on November 1 was meticulously organized, featuring the newest and most advanced elements of Algeria’s armed forces across air, land, and sea. Local media reports highlighted the presence of T-90 tanks, powerful artillery units, and missile-capable submarines—a clear demonstration of Algeria’s extensive ground and naval capabilities. The air show portion featured a mix of modern and vintage aircraft, with jets like the Su-34 Fencers flying in a formation of ‘70’ to mark the anniversary.
The Su-34 Fencer, which led the formation, is one of Algeria’s newer acquisitions, reflecting the country’s shift toward multi-role fighters with both strike and reconnaissance capabilities. Joining the Fencer in the air were Su-30 and MiG-29 fighters, alongside support aircraft such as the presidential A340-500 and the Gulfstream G550.
Algeria’s military might, on display in the parade, is intertwined with its rich history of resistance. The roots of Algeria’s independence movement can be traced to the early 20th century, when anti-colonial sentiments began brewing among the Algerian populace. French promises of greater autonomy during and after World War I went unfulfilled, further fueling resentment and determination for sovereignty.
On November 1, 1954, the FLN initiated a series of attacks that marked the start of the Algerian Revolution. Over the following years, the FLN’s guerrilla warfare tactics and strategic strikes gained international attention, with sympathetic nations supporting Algeria’s right to self-determination.
The violence escalated during the Battle of Algiers (1956–57), as FLN fighters took the fight into the urban heart of the country, challenging French military dominance. The brutal tactics employed by the French army, including torture and mass arrests, were met with condemnation and eventually swayed public opinion against the war.
After intense diplomatic pressure and years of fierce fighting, French President Charles de Gaulle conceded that Algeria had the right to decide its future. The Evian Accords of 1962 paved the way for Algeria’s independence, ending 132 years of colonial rule and securing the country’s future as an autonomous nation.
For Algeria, November 1 stands not only as a reminder of past struggles but as a symbol of resilience and self-determination. President Tebboune emphasized that the anniversary is a time to honor those who fought for freedom and to renew Algeria’s commitment to peace and international cooperation. As he addressed the crowd, Tebboune highlighted Algeria’s adherence to the principles of non-interference, reaffirming that its military is strictly for defensive purposes.
The day’s celebrations were not limited to the parade; they extended to gatherings, exhibitions, and educational programs that highlighted the significance of the revolution. The Algerian government also took the opportunity to reinforce the importance of maintaining sovereignty in a complex global landscape.
The unexpected return of the MiG-25 Foxbat during the parade has sparked curiosity and debate among defense experts. Some speculate that Algeria may have preserved a limited number of these aircraft for ceremonial purposes, symbolizing the nation’s enduring resilience and commitment to self-reliance. Others view the Foxbat’s presence as a reminder of the complex military and political alliances that shaped Algeria’s defense strategy during the Cold War.
Algeria’s ability to maintain and operate a wide range of military technology—old and new—underscores the country’s strategic foresight. Its commitment to an advanced and modernized military reflects a continued pursuit of stability and preparedness in a region marked by geopolitical tension.
