Algeria may have become the first foreign operator of the Russian-made fifth-generation fighter Su-57E, with footage of the aircraft flying in the country’s airspace released.
Videos released on social media show a desert landscape consistent with Algeria’s terrain, reinforcing the possibility that the type of aircraft is already in operation in the region.
The aircraft’s visual identification results showed that it had characteristics that exactly matched the Su-57 design, suggesting that the fighter’s aerial operations had already begun. Algeria’s interest in the model dates back to 2019, when the Algerian delegation inspected the export version at the MAKS aviation show in Russia, and negotiations began that attracted international media attention.
At that time, news of a contract to purchase 14 aircraft worth approximately $2 billion was announced, but the contract progress was delayed due to technical problems and the need for aircraft system adjustments. Meanwhile, Algeria carried out preparations under a high level of secrecy, including preparing an air force base, building reinforcement facilities, and sending pilots to Russia for training.
In 2025, the Russian manufacturer confirmed delivery of two Su-57s to an unidentified foreign customer. The recent sighting of the aircraft over Algeria raises the possibility that the North African country may be a buyer, and is already expanding its military cooperation with Moscow, including the purchase of Su-34 bombers.
source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @PLA_MilitaryUpd | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team
Footage of one of the recently delivered 5th Gen Su-57E Multirole Fighters of the Algerian Air Force (AAF), flying over Algeria, possibly near Oum El Bouaghi. pic.twitter.com/gUymyBB2GO
— OSINTWarfare (@OSINTWarfare) February 7, 2026
