Algeria Welcomes Sukhoi Su-35: Enhancing Air Superiority in Response to Regional Power Dynamics

Algeria has reportedly commenced operations with the Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet, marking a pivotal advancement in its military modernization efforts. Additionally, it is rumored to be the first confirmed export customer for Russia’s fifth-generation Su-57 Felon, further strengthening its strategic defense alliance with Moscow.

The Algerian Air Force recently completed its inaugural operational training flight with the Su-35 from Oum Bouaghi Air Base, highlighting the deepening defense collaboration between Algeria and Russia. This development aligns with Russia’s aim to reshape its military presence in the Mediterranean and North Africa, especially following the challenges faced at its Hmeimim Air Base in Syria due to increasing regional instability.

Although there has been no official confirmation from either Algiers or Moscow, various intelligence reports suggest that Algeria finalized a contract with Russia in 2018 for the acquisition of 24 Su-35 Flanker-E fighters, reinforcing its status as one of Africa’s most formidable air forces.

Interestingly, there is speculation that these 24 Su-35s, now in Algeria’s hands, were initially intended for Egypt, which had to abandon its acquisition due to significant diplomatic and economic pressure from the United States under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). Egypt had entered into a $2 billion agreement in 2018 to purchase two dozen Su-35s, with deliveries anticipated to start by 2020. However, facing threats of severe economic sanctions from the U.S., Cairo was compelled to cancel the order.

Unverified sources indicate that multiple Su-35 aircraft tailored to Egyptian specifications have been completed and were ready for delivery, yet they never arrived in Egypt. This scenario created an opportunity for Algeria, which quickly acted to acquire the jets, thereby enhancing its air superiority in North Africa and simultaneously expanding Russia’s military presence in the area.

Algeria has had a sustained interest in the Su-35S for several years. As early as 2016, reports emerged that the Algerian Air Force conducted tests of the Su-35 at Tamanrasset, a desert air base designated for advanced assessments. Sources indicate that Algerian pilots were impressed by the aircraft’s agility, sensor integration, and extended operational range.

In 2019, the Russian publication Kommersant reported that Algeria had finalized a contract for 14 Su-35s, along with orders for the Su-34 Fullback strike aircraft and the Su-57 Felon, positioning Algeria as one of Russia’s most significant defense clients outside the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

Although there has been no official confirmation, a combination of satellite imagery, airbase activities, and delivery timelines implies that the Su-35S is now an active component of Algeria’s air fleet.

For Algeria, the acquisition of the Su-35S transcends mere fleet enhancement; it is a vital move to sustain its air superiority in the region. Currently, the Algerian Air Force is supported by over 70 Su-30MKA fighters, which were introduced in 2006 and represent some of the most advanced Su-30 variants ever manufactured, equipped with avionics from both French and Russian sources tailored to Algeria’s specifications. At that time, the Su-30MKA provided Algeria with a significant technological advantage over most African and Arab nations, including its historical adversary, Morocco.

As regional air forces advance, particularly with Morocco’s F-16 Vipers undergoing significant upgrades, Algeria has acknowledged the necessity to enhance its aerial combat capabilities.

The introduction of the Su-35S bolsters Algeria’s air combat proficiency by providing:
– Robust AL-41F-1S engines that deliver exceptional thrust and endurance.
– State-of-the-art Irbis-E radar, which can track targets at distances exceeding 350 kilometers.
– Improved stealth characteristics, resulting in a smaller radar cross-section compared to previous Flanker models.
– Supermaneuverability, enabling it to perform combat maneuvers that are beyond the capabilities of conventional fourth-generation aircraft.

Although the Su-35S does not fundamentally alter Algeria’s air strategy, it improves operational efficiency, broadens situational awareness, and secures air dominance against potential adversaries.

There are indications that Algeria might consider upgrading its current Su-30MKA fleet with Su-35 technology, which would include the AL-41F-1S engines for enhanced fuel efficiency and thrust, the Irbis-E radar for a significant boost in detection range, and thrust-vectoring nozzles to improve dogfighting capabilities. This upgrade could elevate the aircraft closer to 4++ generation performance standards while ensuring fleet uniformity.

Nonetheless, the integration of two distinct Flanker variants may pose logistical difficulties, particularly regarding maintenance, spare parts, and pilot training. Unless Algeria decides to expand its fleet of Su-35s, the advantages of operating two separate Flanker models may be constrained.

The Su-35 represents the pinnacle of advancements stemming from the Su-27M Flanker program, reflecting decades of development. As part of Russia’s initiative for next-generation air superiority, the aircraft has undergone several redesigns, including the Su-37 demonstrator, which introduced thrust-vectoring technology to enhance agility in combat situations.

Russia’s proactive strategy to promote the Su-35 on the global market has led to several export agreements, including:
– China (24 units delivered to the PLA Air Force)
– Egypt (contract terminated due to U.S. influence)
– Algeria (the latest confirmed operator)

In comparison to previous Flanker models, the Su-35S features upgraded avionics, enhanced sensor integration, and a more efficient engine system, establishing it as one of the most formidable 4++ generation fighters worldwide.

Equipped with twin AL-41F-1S turbofan engines, the Su-35S achieves a remarkable top speed of Mach 2.25 and has an operational range of 3,600 kilometers, allowing for prolonged missions with exceptional endurance.

Engineered for high-agility aerial engagements, the aircraft can endure 9-g maneuverability limits, providing a significant advantage in dogfights and evasive actions.

Its Irbis-E Passive Electronically Scanned Array (PESA) radar offers a detection range surpassing 350 kilometers, enabling it to identify and engage targets at considerable distances with outstanding accuracy.

Moreover, certain variants come with optional secondary AESA radars, strategically located in the wing roots to improve situational awareness and targeting capabilities, further establishing the Su-35S as one of the most sophisticated 4++ generation fighters currently in service.

Furthermore, the electronic warfare capabilities and countermeasure systems of the Su-35 greatly enhance its survivability in contested airspace, providing Algerian pilots with a significant tactical edge in upcoming conflicts.

The addition of the Su-35S to Algeria’s military inventory represents more than just a standard procurement; it marks a pivotal change in the balance of air power within the region. As geopolitical tensions escalate in North Africa and the Mediterranean, Algeria’s choice to incorporate the Su-35, along with a prospective Su-57 fleet, underscores its dedication to achieving air dominance in the decades ahead.

With Russia actively pursuing the expansion of its defense collaborations, Algeria’s increasing dependence on advanced Russian fighter jets could establish it as a crucial player in the evolving military landscape across Africa and beyond.