Algeria could become the first Arab country to possess fifth-generation Russian Su-57 fighters, according to Russian media. Talks between Algeria and Russia took place at the end of 2020, and according to the “Russia Today” agency, Algeria could buy at least 14 planes, delivered before 2030.
This new acquisition could join the arsenal of the Algerian armed forces, which already includes powerful weapons such as the “S-400” air defense missiles, the “Iskander” tactical missiles, the devastating “T-90” tanks, and the Sukhoi-34 fighter bomber.
Algeria shows great interest in obtaining the Su-57E, an export version of the Su-57 fighter, but also wants certain modifications to be made, such as an adapted radar. The process of supplying the Su-57 should be completed by 2025.
Two Su-30MK fighter squadrons, one MiG-29M2 light fighter squadron, one Su-35 heavy fighter squadron, and one Su-34 aircraft squadron will be formed to operate these combat aircraft.
It should be noted that the accelerated full-scale manufacturing phase of the Su-57 began in 2019, and the first unit was delivered to the Russian Air Force in December 2020.
In conclusion, Algeria could become the first Arab country to possess fifth-generation fighters, which demonstrates its commitment to modernizing its air defense arsenal. The talks between Algeria and Russia took place in 2020, and the acquisition of these aircraft should be completed by 2025. The Algerian armed forces will be equipped to operate these combat aircraft, and Algeria will be able to strengthen its air defense.
