Algeria Boosts Air Force with Russian Su-34 Fighter-Bombers

Algiers, September 11 - Algeria is set to bolster its air force capabilities with the acquisition of Russian Su-34 fighter-bombers, a significant development in its military modernization efforts. The Su-34, a twin-engine, supersonic tactical bomber derived from the Su-27 family, is designed for long-range precision strikes while maintaining robust air-to-air combat capabilities. This procurement, reportedly part of a 2019 deal that also included Su-35 and Su-57 aircraft, marks Algeria as the first export customer for the advanced Su-34M variant. The delivery, initially planned for completion by 2025, faced delays due to Russia’s commitments in Ukraine, but recent reports confirm that production has progressed, with aircraft spotted in desert camouflage tailored to Algeria’s terrain. This strategic acquisition underscores Algeria’s ambition to maintain its position as one of Africa’s most formidable air forces, enhancing its deterrence and power projection capabilities across North Africa and beyond.

The Su-34M, an export-configured model, brings cutting-edge technology to Algeria’s arsenal. Equipped with a titanium-armored cockpit for two crew members seated side by side, the aircraft is built for high-threat environments, offering enhanced survivability. Its B-004 passive-array multimode radar excels at detecting ground and maritime targets, while the Platan electro-optical targeting system ensures precision strikes. With a maximum speed of Mach 1.8, a 4,000-kilometer range, and a payload exceeding eight tons across 12 hardpoints, the Su-34M can deploy a wide array of weaponry, including air-to-surface missiles like the Kh-31 and Kh-59, KAB-500 guided bombs, and the 3M-80EA anti-ship missile capable of striking targets 250 kilometers away. These features make the Su-34M a versatile platform, enabling Algeria to conduct long-range operations, potentially reaching as far as the Arabian Gulf or central Europe, thereby strengthening its strategic influence.

Algeria’s decision to acquire the Su-34M aligns with its long-standing defense relationship with Russia, a key supplier of military hardware. The deal, reportedly involving 14 Su-34Ms, aims to replace Algeria’s aging Su-24M strike fighters, which have been in service since the 1990s. The Su-34M’s competitive unit price, estimated below $10 million, offers a cost-effective solution for modernizing Algeria’s fleet while maintaining high combat performance. The aircraft’s desert brown-and-yellow camouflage, observed in satellite imagery near Moscow’s Zhukovsky Airport and the Novosibirsk plant, reflects Algeria’s specific operational needs, blending seamlessly with its arid landscapes. This tailored design, combined with upgrades like radar sensors and landing lights seen on the Su-35S and Su-57, suggests that Algeria’s Su-34Ms may surpass the capabilities of Russia’s own fleet, a pattern previously observed in other export deals.

The delivery of the Su-34M fighters positions Algeria to enhance its regional security posture amid evolving geopolitical dynamics. As North Africa faces increasing instability, these advanced aircraft provide Algeria with superior strike capabilities and deterrence against potential threats. The acquisition also signals Russia’s renewed ability to fulfill export contracts following production constraints, reinforcing its defense ties with Algeria. By integrating the Su-34M into its air force, Algeria modernizes its fleet and solidifies its role as a dominant military power in Africa, capable of projecting force far beyond its borders. This move will likely reshape regional power dynamics, making Algeria’s air force a critical player in maintaining stability and influence in the Mediterranean and Sahel regions.