According to Algerian start ship, the Algerian Air Force began operating the Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet from Oum Bouaghi Air Base. This development follows reports indicating that Algeria could become the third operator of the Su-35, after Russia, Iran, and China, following Egypt’s cancellation of its order. The acquisition is part of Algeria’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fighter fleet, maintain operational capabilities, and align with its defense procurement strategy.
Reports indicate that the Su-35s delivered to Algeria were originally manufactured for Egypt, which placed an order in 2018 but later withdrew due to Western economic and political pressures. A subsequent discussion about transferring these aircraft to Iran did not result in an acquisition, reportedly due to Tehran’s preference for air defense systems over additional fighters. However, Iran finally confirmed on January 27, 2025, the purchase of Russian Su-35 fighter jets as replacements for older American-made F-14 Tomcats and F-4 Phantoms. Analysts suggest that Algeria’s decision to accept the Su-35 is linked to delays in the Su-57 production schedule, leading to an interim solution. Some sources report that this decision was influenced by cost-effective acquisition terms, the availability of aircraft from previous export deals that did not proceed, and the need to sustain combat readiness while awaiting the arrival of next-generation aircraft.
Algeria’s acquisition of the Su-57 Felon was first reported in 2021, with sources indicating that it would become the first confirmed foreign customer of the fifth-generation Russian fighter. There are reports of Algerian pilots undergoing training in Russia, although no official details have been released regarding the exact timeline for deliveries. Given ongoing production constraints and prioritization of the Russian Air Force’s procurement, the delivery schedule for Algeria remains uncertain. Some analysts suggest that the Su-57 is intended to replace Algeria’s retired MiG-25 interceptors, though no official statement has been made regarding its specific role in the Algerian Air Force’s order of battle.
The Algerian Air Force currently operates over 70 Su-30MKA fighters, which serve as its primary multirole aircraft. The Su-30MKA, a variant of the Su-30MKI, was acquired starting in 2006 and has played a central role in Algeria’s air defense and strike capabilities. The aircraft’s modernized avionics, radar, and engine systems allow it to perform air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. Some reports indicate that Algeria may consider an upgrade program for its Su-30MKA fleet, possibly integrating elements from the Su-35, such as the AL-41F-1S engine and Irbis-E radar, to optimize logistics and performance standardization.
The Su-30MKA is based on the Su-27 Flanker airframe and incorporates N011M phased array radar, thrust-vectoring AL-31FP engines, and advanced targeting systems. The aircraft is designed for high maneuverability, extended operational range, and compatibility with precision-guided weapons. The thrust-vectoring system enables enhanced control in dogfights and advanced aerial engagements, while its phased array radar improves situational awareness and multi-target tracking capabilities.
The Su-30MKA is powered by two AL-31FP turbofan engines, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of Mach 2. It has a combat radius of approximately 1,500 kilometers and an extended range of over 3,000 kilometers with external fuel tanks. The aircraft supports a maximum payload of 8,000 kilograms, enabling it to carry a combination of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions. The N011M radar system provides detection capabilities against multiple airborne threats, while its integrated electronic warfare suite enhances survivability in contested environments.
The Su-35 is an evolution of the Su-27M program, developed as part of efforts to enhance the Flanker platform’s capabilities. The aircraft underwent multiple redesigns, including the Su-37 demonstrator, which introduced thrust-vectoring technology. Russia’s decision to market the Su-35 internationally resulted in export agreements with China, Egypt (later canceled), and Algeria. The aircraft incorporates modernized avionics, sensor systems, and propulsion technology compared to earlier Flanker variants.
The Su-35’s design removes the canards featured on the Su-30MKI and Su-37 prototypes, relying instead on thrust-vectoring for maneuverability. It is constructed with lighter composite materials to improve aerodynamics and features reinforced internal structures for high-performance operations. The cockpit is equipped with fully digital glass displays, enhancing pilot interface and mission management. The aircraft’s modified airframe is designed to support higher-G loads and extended service life.
The Su-35 is powered by two AL-41F-1S turbofan engines, providing a maximum speed of Mach 2.25 and an operational range of approximately 3,600 kilometers. The aircraft is designed for 9-g maneuvering and features the Irbis-E passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar, capable of detecting targets at over 350 kilometers. Some variants include secondary AESA radars positioned in the wing roots to enhance detection and targeting efficiency. The Su-35’s electronic warfare and countermeasure systems are designed to improve survivability in contested airspace.
The Su-35’s armament includes air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions designed for long-range and close-quarters combat. It supports R-77 and R-73 air-to-air missiles, Kh-31 and Kh-59 cruise missiles, and KAB-500 and KAB-1500 precision-guided bombs. The 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon provides a short-range engagement option. The aircraft has 14 external hardpoints, allowing a maximum payload capacity of over 8,000 kilograms, supporting multirole operations in air superiority, strike missions, and interdiction.
Algeria’s reported acquisition of the Su-35 aligns with its ongoing fighter fleet modernization, ensuring continuity in air defense capabilities while awaiting deliveries of the Su-57 Felon. The procurement follows patterns of previous Algerian-Russian defense agreements, with sources indicating that the Su-35 will be integrated into Algeria’s force structure alongside existing Su-30MKAs. Although further official statements are expected, reports suggest that Algeria’s decision was influenced by factors including production schedules, cost considerations, and operational requirements.
