Algeria May Have Received the First Russian Su-57E Fifth-Generation Fighters

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Algeria May Have Received the First Russian Su-57E Fifth-Generation Fighters
Algeria May Have Received the First Russian Su-57E Fifth-Generation Fighters (X @PLA_MilitaryUpd)

Algeria may have become the first foreign operator of the Russian fifth-generation fighter Su-57E, following the emergence of a video showing the aircraft in flight over the country’s territory.

The images, shared on social media, show a desert landscape consistent with Algerian geography and reinforce the suspicion that the model is already operating in the region.

Visual identification of the jet indicates that its features match the design of the Su-57 exactly, suggesting that air operations with the fighter have already begun. Algeria’s interest in the model dates back to 2019, when representatives of the country examined the export version during the MAKS airshow in Russia, initiating negotiations that drew international media attention.

At that time, reports emerged of a contract valued at around $2 billion for the purchase of 14 aircraft, but the deal’s progress faced delays due to technical issues and necessary adjustments to the aircraft systems. Meanwhile, Algeria advanced the preparation of its air bases, constructing reinforced facilities and sending pilots to train in Russia under strict secrecy.

In 2025, the Russian manufacturer itself confirmed the delivery of two Su-57s to an unidentified foreign customer. The recent appearance of the aircraft in Algerian skies strengthens the hypothesis that the North African country is this buyer, expanding its military cooperation with Moscow, which already includes the acquisition of Su-34 fighter-bombers.

Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @PLA_MilitaryUpd | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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