Algeria has expanded its military aviation capabilities with the delivery of additional Russian fighter jets, reinforcing its longstanding defence relationship with Moscow.
The North African country received a batch of Su-34M strike fighters in May, as part of a broader military arrangement between Algeria and Russia.
The deliveries come as Russia continues to fulfil international aircraft orders despite pressure on its aviation industry and demand from its own armed forces.
Russian aircraft deliveries continue
Defense24 reported that Russia delivered another batch of Su-35S aircraft to its military at the end of August.
That brought Russia’s reported combat aircraft deliveries to 14 so far this year, a relatively low figure compared with previous years when annual deliveries exceeded 20 and sometimes reached around 30 aircraft.
TASS, citing Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation, reported projected domestic deliveries including Su-35S, Su-57, Su-34 and Su-30SM2 aircraft.
At the same time, Moscow continues to fulfil export orders to countries including Algeria, Belarus and Myanmar. Defense24 reported that at least four Su-34 aircraft have been delivered to Algeria this year.
Algeria strengthens its combat fleet
Algeria already operates a substantial fleet of Russian-made military aircraft and remains one of Moscow’s most important defence partners in Africa.
Algerian defence publications previously reported plans involving 14 Su-34ME, 14 Su-35E and 14 Su-57E fifth-generation fighters.
The continued deliveries underline Algeria’s efforts to modernise its air force as military competition and defence spending remain significant across North Africa.
Russia, meanwhile, retains Algeria as an important export customer as its aviation industry faces the competing demands of domestic military requirements and international orders.