In mid-May of this year, a series of images that went viral on social media marked a new indication of deepening military cooperation between Russia and Algeria. Specifically, they showed test flights of an unusual Sukhoi Su-34 fighter-bomber, featuring a desert-tone paint scheme, which led to speculation that Moscow was moving forward with the provision of this type of tactical attack and bomber aircraft to equip the Algerian Air Force.
A few days ago, new photographs went viral showing this aircraft in greater detail, as it carried out another series of test flights over the city of Zhukovsky.
In recent months, various signs have indicated that a significant process of capability renewal is underway in the Algerian Air Force. The historic ties between Moscow and Algiers are enabling the institution to acquire some of the most modern combat aircraft produced by the Russian aerospace complex.
To cite a few examples, the Algerian Air Force is reportedly in the process of incorporating new Sukhoi Su-35S fighters, originally manufactured for the Egyptian Air Force, as part of a deal that was canceled by Cairo in the face of pressure and fears of sanctions imposed by the United States.
Moreover, various reports based on statements from Russian officials belonging to the state consortium Rostec and the Rosoboronexport agency indicate that the first export sale of the fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57 aircraft, in its Su-57E version, has been finalized, with Algeria said to be the first foreign operator of this aircraft, which is currently being delivered to the Russian Aerospace Forces.
In this regard, as has already been noted, it is worth mentioning that the Algerian Air Force has in its inventory a significant range of Russian/Soviet-origin aircraft, in segments ranging from fighter and attack to pilot training. Among these are currently the Su-30MKA and MiG-29S/M/M2 aircraft, complemented by Su-24MK2 attack and reconnaissance aircraft, as well as Yak-130 advanced trainers.
Regarding the potential incorporation of the Su-34 into the Air Force of the North African country, the Algerian government has not yet commented on the acquisition. Nor have there been any official announcements from Russian officials, so for the time being, the number of aircraft that may be acquired and the scope of the deal remain unknown.
Lastly, regarding the aircraft in question, in addition to its unusual paint scheme adapted for operations in desert environments, the test flights took place over the skies of the city of Zhukovsky, located in Moscow Oblast, on the banks of the Moskva River. Thanks to the photographs that went viral in recent days, the number “704” can be seen on its fuselage, with no further details visible.
*Photo credits to whom it may concern
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