Despite difficult negotiations, Algeria still bought Su-35 fighters from Russia
Algeria has purchased Su-35 fighter jets from Russia after lengthy negotiations. This was reported by the Algerian military publication Algerian Star Ship, and confirmed by a video of one of these aircraft flying in the sky over Algeria, which was published by a user of the same resource.
Here's What We Know
Earlier, photos of Su-35s in Algerian camouflage were posted online at the Sukhoi airfield. Discussions about the purchase began in 2016, when the Defence Mirror reported that the fighters, originally intended for Egypt and then offered to Iran, could become the property of Algeria.
The Algerian Air Force began operating the Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet in its first air training from the Oum Bouaghi base. ??? pic.twitter.com/CsbQMfAjOG
- Algerian star ship (@Algeristarship) 13 March 2025
There is no official data on the number and cost of the deal, but according to various sources, Algeria could have ordered from 14 to 24 Su-35 aircraft. DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA notes that the country will purchase 24 units, repeating the unsuccessful attempt of Egypt, which cancelled the contract due to US pressure.
At the same time, in 2022, Military Watch Magazine wrote that Algeria decided not to buy the Su-35 because of doubts about its onboard radar system, which costs 60% more than the price of the Su-30MKA. However, these statements were later refuted when the Algerian Ministry of Defence resumed negotiations with Russian manufacturers.
Algeria is one of the largest importers of Russian weapons, second only to India in terms of purchases. The country's air force is equipped with modern Russian aircraft, such as the Su-30MKA and MiG-29M/M2/S.
Source: X
