Algeria may have become the first foreign operator of the Russian Su-57E fifth-generation fighter, after a video emerged showing the aircraft in flight over the country’s territory.
The images, published on social media, reveal a desert scenario compatible with Algerian geography and reinforce the suspicion that the model is already operating in the region.
Visual identification of the jet indicates that its characteristics exactly match the design of the Su-57, suggesting that aerial operations with the fighter have already begun. Algeria’s interest in the model dates back to 2019, when representatives of the country analyzed the export version during the MAKS show in Russia, starting negotiations that caught the attention of the international press.
During that period, reports emerged of a contract valued at around US$2 billion for the purchase of 14 aircraft, but the progress of the agreement faced delays due to technical issues and necessary adjustments to the plane’s systems. Meanwhile, Algeria advanced in the preparation of its air bases, with the construction of reinforced structures and sending pilots for training on Russian territory, amidst great secrecy.
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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 reinforces 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: @PLA_MilitaryUpd | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the 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
