Algeria operating Sukhoi Su-35S

• Negotiations for this deal commenced in 2020
• These enhancements improve Algeria’s capacity to safeguard its expansive airspace
• The Su-30SME is already in service with the Ethiopian Air Force

Algeria has recently commenced operations of the Russian-manufactured Sukhoi Su-35S fighter jet, which serves to enhance its air force capabilities and signifies a deepening military partnership with Russia. The Algerian Air Force initiated its inaugural air training with the Su-35S from the Oum Bouaghi base, representing a substantial advancement in the modernization of its fleet. Although there has been no official confirmation regarding the deal, reports indicate that Algeria entered a contract in 2018 for the acquisition of twenty-four of these advanced aircraft.

Speculation regarding Algeria's procurement of the Su-35S has persisted for several years. Reports from 2016 suggested that the Algerian military conducted flight tests of the aircraft in Tamanrasset, with favourable impressions regarding its performance. Moreover, a Russian publication, Kommersant, claimed in 2019 that Algeria had finalized a contract for 14 Su-35s in conjunction with other fighter models like the Su-34 and Su-57; however, both Russia and Algeria have refrained from making formal announcements. This tendency for discretion is characteristic of Algerian arms agreements. Nonetheless, with aircraft deliveries underway and training in progress, it is evident that the Su-35S is now a part of Algeria's inventory, even amid conjecture that Algeria may also be considering the acquisition of the newer Su-57 stealth fighter.

For Algeria, the procurement of this aircraft transcends mere hardware acquisition. It is a strategic initiative to maintain a robust air force, particularly given that over 70 Su-30MKAs currently form the core of its fleet. These Su-30s, ordered in 2006, were regarded as leading-edge at the time, providing Algeria with a competitive advantage over many African and Arab nations, most notably its longtime rival, Morocco. The Su-35S further amplifies this strength with enhanced engines, sensors, and a more stealth-oriented design, although it does not fundamentally alter the operational capabilities of the Air Force—it simply enhances existing capabilities. Some analysts propose that Algeria could upgrade its existing Su-30s utilizing technology from the Su-35, such as the AL-41F-1S engines or Irbis-E radar; however, this could complicate maintenance without introducing any novel operational approaches.

This initiative aligns with Algeria's historical profile as a significant buyer of Russian military equipment, ranking second only to India among international purchasers. Given its extensive coastline and borders with regions experiencing instability, such as Libya and Mali, Algeria requires a formidable air force to secure its airspace and support ground operations against insurgent threats in the Sahel. The Su-35S is anticipated to replace outdated MiG-29s and Su-24s, thereby reinforcing the country's defence capabilities. Additionally, it positions Algeria advantageously relative to neighbouring countries like Morocco, which operates American-made F-16s, although it remains uncertain whether this development will trigger an arms race within North Africa.

The acquisition also includes the provision of Russian instructors to train Algerian pilots, with discussions of further agreements anticipated—even involving the Su-57, which Algeria has confirmed procuring this year, thus becoming the first foreign customer for that stealth aircraft. This acquisition could have ramifications for regional dynamics, potentially prompting countries such as Egypt or Morocco to reassess their military strategies. It might also influence Algeria's relations with Western powers, including the United States and France, which have historically supplied military equipment but do not always share aligned political perspectives. For the present, the Su-35S is operational, bolstering the strength of Algeria’s air force.

The Su-30SME, which is already in service with the Ethiopian Air Force, is noted for its capacity to share operational data with military aircraft, ground command centres, and satellites. It has the potential to operate as a mini-AWACS, enhancing battlefield interoperability. The Su-35, which has played a significant role in Russia’s military engagements, particularly in Ukraine, is viewed as an optimal alternative to aging MiG-29s, owing to its multi-role capabilities and air defence functions. As Algeria continues to enhance its air force's integration with Russian air defence systems, it is likely to become the international launch customer for the Su-57 Felon, with plans for the acquisition of two squadrons (approximately 24 aircraft) confirmed in February 2024 via Algerian state media, alongside ongoing training in Russia and expected deliveries later this year.

These enhancements improve Algeria’s capacity to safeguard its expansive airspace, particularly considering its 2,400-kilometer coastline and extensive land borders with seven countries, including politically unstable neighbours such as Libya and Mali. The advanced radar systems and long-range engagement capabilities of the Su-35S will enhance border security and counter-terrorism initiatives, particularly in the Sahel region, where insurgent groups pose significant threats.

The integration of the Su-35S into Algeria's military arsenal carries substantial implications for the regional balance of power in North Africa and the Mediterranean. Algeria’s neighbour, Morocco, operates a fleet of F-16 fighters, backed by the United States, which creates a competitive atmosphere. The advanced capabilities of the Su-35S may prompt Morocco and other regional nations to reevaluate their military strategies, potentially leading to increased defence spending or new acquisitions to sustain parity. For instance, Egypt, another significant player in the region, operates a mixed fleet of F-16s, Rafales, and some Russian aircraft and may interpret Algeria’s military enhancement as a challenge to its aerial superiority.

Conversely, Morocco has been operating F-16 Fighting Falcons procured from the United States beginning in 2008. Presently, Morocco possesses approximately 23 units of the Block 52+ variant, with some upgraded to the Block 70/72 configurations in recent years. The F-16 is classified as a fourth-generation multi-role fighter, characterized by a smaller, single-engine configuration that is lighter than the Su-35S. It is celebrated for its agility, achieving speeds up to Mach 2, and employs a versatile weaponry mix that includes AMRAAMs for air-to-air engagements and precision munitions for ground operations. Its APG-68 radar, while effective, does not match the sophistication of the Su-35’s radar system, and its combat radius is approximately 550 kilometres using internal fuel, with extensions possible using drop tanks. The F-16s have been integral to Morocco’s air force modernization strategy, facilitating a range of operations from aerial combat to precision bombing.

Regional tensions have escalated in recent years, particularly in connection with the Western Sahara conflict, where Algeria has expressed support for the Polisario Front. Reports from Israeli media have indicated that the UAE has offered to cover the costs of F-35 jets for Morocco should the United States authorize the sale.

The latest iteration of the F-35 multirole fighter is estimated to cost around $78 million per unit. Analysts suggest that Morocco’s growing ties with the United States and Israel could facilitate its acquisition of the F-35, thereby giving Morocco a strategic edge over its North African counterparts, including Egypt.

Recent reports from Israeli media indicate that Morocco is advancing its strategy to acquire Lockheed Martin's F-35 Lightning II jets. According to the publication Identité Juive, Morocco is set to become both the first Arab and African nation to procure U.S. F-35 fighter jets. This anticipated agreement is expected to encompass 32 F-35 aircraft, with a total cost exceeding $17 billion, marking a significant modernization effort for Morocco's air force.

Negotiations for this deal commenced in 2020, with Morocco seeking assistance from Israel to expedite the process and address political obstacles with U.S. authorities. This acquisition aims not only to modernize Morocco’s air force but also to secure a strategic advantage amid increasing tensions with Algeria concerning the Western Sahara conflict.