Algeria may have become the first foreign operator of the Russian-made Su-57E fifth-generation fighter jet, with footage released of the aircraft flying over its airspace.
Footage published on social media shows a desert landscape consistent with Algeria’s geography, raising the possibility that the aircraft is already operational in the region.
Visual confirmation of the aircraft shows that it has characteristics fully consistent with the Su-57 design, suggesting that fighter air operations have already begun. Algeria’s interest in the model dates back to 2019, when representatives from the country confirmed an export version at Russia’s MAKS air show, and negotiations began that attracted international media attention.
At the time, there were reports of a contract to purchase 14 aircraft worth approximately $2 billion, but technical issues and necessary adjustments to the aircraft’s systems delayed the deal. During that time, Algeria continued to upgrade its air base, build reinforcement facilities, and send pilots to Russia for training. This work was kept strictly confidential.
In 2025, the Russian manufacturer confirmed the delivery of two Su-57 aircraft to an unidentified foreign customer. The recent appearance of the aircraft in Algerian skies strengthens the possibility that the country is the buyer, and has already expanded its military cooperation with Moscow, including the acquisition 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
