Algeria’s Stealth Gambit: Su-57 Acquisition Reshapes North African Skies

Algeria is on the verge of becoming the first export customer for the Russian stealth fighter Su-57 Felon from Sukhoi (Su-57 E version). According to the website zona-militari.com, Russia is considering selling up to 12 new Su-57 stealth fighters to equip the Algerian air force. Citing the Algerian channel APS, the Bulgarian press agency Focus News reported last February that Algerian air force pilots were being trained in Russia to fly the Su-57E, and that deliveries were scheduled for the end of 2025. For now, neither Algiers nor Moscow have officially confirmed or commented on this potential agreement.

The potential acquisition of the Su-57 Felon from Sukhoi (Su-57 E version) will allow Algeria to meet its strategic needs and regional ambitions. As a major military power in North Africa, the country of Tebboune is facing security challenges, including border tensions with Morocco and the need to counter modern air threats in an unstable region. The Russian aircraft offers advanced capabilities that could strengthen Algerian deterrence.

Derived from the PAK Fa program, the Su-57 Felon from Sukhoi (Su-57 E version) is designed to improve air superiority, conduct precision strikes, and counter modern air defense systems. It is the first fifth-generation stealth fighter jet developed by Russia. It entered service in 2020 with the Russian air force.