The Algerian Air Force has apparently acquired an undisclosed number of Russian-made Su-35 fighter jets, making Algeria the fourth operator of these aircraft after Russia, China, and Iran. Video evidence of the jets has surfaced on social media platform X.
The account Algerian Star Ship posted a video showing a Su-35 flying in Algeria. “The Algerian Air Force has begun training flights with Su-35 fighters from the airbase in Oum El Bouaghi,” the post stated.
Additional photos from the same account appear to show the same aircraft, which bears a silhouette resembling the Su-35.
According to reports from defense outlets Aviacionline and Army Recognition, the aircraft’s livery suggests they were originally intended for Egypt. However, Cairo reportedly canceled the order in 2018 due to the threat of US sanctions. The quality of the videos and images circulating on X, however, does not confirm with absolute certainty whether the alleged Algerian Su-35s retain the Egyptian Air Force color scheme.
Previously, there were no known plans for Algeria to purchase the Su-35, as the country was believed to be focusing on acquiring the more advanced Russian Su-57. In February, multiple sources unofficially confirmed Algeria’s acquisition of Su-57 jets.
Algeria has historically been one of Russia’s key defense customers, with its air force considered among the most formidable in the region. The fleet includes MiG-29s, Su-30MKA fighters, Su-24 frontline bombers, and Su-24MP reconnaissance aircraft.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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Based on materials from TASS