Russia would reportedly move forward with the sale of up to 12 new Su-57 stealth fighters to equip the Algerian Air Force

In recent months, Russia’s industrial complex—particularly its aerospace sector, led by Rostec and the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC)—has carried out significant promotional efforts to position the Su-57 stealth fighter of the Russian Aerospace Forces as a noteworthy option in the export market. These efforts now appear to be bearing fruit, with several indications suggesting that the Algerian Air Force is on track to become the first operator of the export variant of the fifth-generation fighter. The most recent leaks indicate that the North African country could acquire up to twelve (12) new Su-57E aircraft, the official designation of the “Felon” variant intended for international customers.

Nearly a year ago, at the end of November 2024, officials from the export agency Rosoboronexport stated that the Russian aerospace complex had finalized the first export contract for the Su-57, its most advanced fighter jet, which is currently in service with the Russian Aerospace Forces. Subsequently, and even without revealing the identity of the first customer, other agencies suggested that the operator would receive its first aircraft during the current year, 2025.

Since then, multiple signs have pointed toward North Africa, suggesting that this first customer is none other than the Algerian Air Force, which is currently undergoing a major renewal and expansion of its capabilities through the incorporation of several of the most advanced combat platforms. As previously reported, the service is expected to receive its first Su-34 fighter-bombers, which are currently undergoing flight tests in Russia.

Although neither Algiers nor Moscow have officially confirmed or commented on this potential deal, reports suggesting a deepening of the long-standing military cooperation between the two countries have grown increasingly frequent over the past months.

The most recent evidence comes from various leaks released by the hacker collective Black Mirror, which disclosed lists and documents outlining plans made in previous years for the sale of Russian military equipment to allied and historically friendly nations. These documents, dated April 2024, mention a potential implementation period between 2024 and 2026.

Among the cases highlighted, Algeria has drawn particular attention—consistent with recent reports—as the mentioned list reportedly includes the potential number of Su-57 stealth aircraft to be supplied to the Algerian Air Force: a total of twelve (12) units in their export version, or Sukhoi Su-57E.

Thus, although these figures may vary, the leaked information—which should be treated with caution—illustrates Russia’s and its defense industry’s ongoing efforts to position their most advanced combat aircraft among long-standing partner nations such as Algeria and, according to recent reports, the renewed interest expressed by India.

Nevertheless, until an official confirmation is issued, these figures could still change, depending on the progress of negotiations that may have led to Algeria’s potential acquisition of the Su-57E. Satellite images would confirm that Russia transferred the Su-35 fighters manufactured for Egypt to the Algerian Air Force
.

Photographs used for illustrative purposes only.