Recent satellite imagery has confirmed that Russia has diverted at least five Su-35 fighter jets, originally manufactured for Egypt, to Algeria. The sophisticated aircraft are now operating from Algeria's Ain Beida Air Base in the northeastern region of the country.
Satellite photos captured on March 10, 2025 revealed one Su-35 jet with Algerian military markings at the air base. Intelligence reports indicate that at least four additional aircraft from Egypt's canceled order have been repainted with Algerian insignia.
The jets were initially produced at Russia's Komsomolsk-on-Amur facility under a 2018 Egyptian contract. However, Egypt withdrew from the deal following U.S. warnings about potential sanctions under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act.
While neither Algeria's Ministry of National Defense nor Russia's Rosoboronexport have officially confirmed the acquisition, multiple sources report that the Algerian Air Force began flight operations with the Su-35s in mid-March 2025.
Military analysts suggest this may be an interim solution for Algeria while awaiting delivery of the more advanced Su-57 Felon fighter jets, which the country ordered in February 2025. The Su-35s will join Algeria's existing fleet of over 70 Su-30MKA fighters.
The Su-35 represents a major capability upgrade, featuring advanced AL-41F-1S engines, enhanced avionics, and the powerful Irbis-E radar system capable of detecting targets beyond 350 kilometers. The aircraft can reach speeds of Mach 2.25 and carry over 8,000 kilograms of weapons payload.
This development marks a notable shift in regional military dynamics, as Algeria continues to modernize its air force amid ongoing competition with neighboring Morocco, which operates F-16 fighters and has expressed interest in acquiring F-35s.