ANJ, February 24 - The Sukhoi Su-57 Felon, Russia's advanced fifth-generation stealth fighter, has once again been observed flying over Algerian airspace, marking a significant milestone in the North African nation's air force modernization efforts. Recent footage captured the distinctive silhouette and characteristic howling sound of the AL-41F1 engines as the aircraft, believed to be the export-oriented Su-57E variant, maneuvered over rural terrain near key air bases such as Oum El Bouaghi. This sighting reinforces reports of ongoing integration and testing phases following initial deliveries, highlighting Algeria's role as the first confirmed foreign operator of this cutting-edge platform. The Su-57 Felon represents a leap in multirole capabilities, combining stealth features, supermaneuverability, and advanced avionics to dominate contested environments.
Algeria's acquisition of the Su-57 Felon aligns with its long-standing partnership with Russian aerospace industries and its strategy to enhance aerial superiority amid regional security dynamics. Leaked documentation from Russian defense entities outlines a contract for up to 12 aircraft, with phased deliveries commencing in late 2025 and continuing through subsequent years, including additional units in 2026. These export-configured jets are tailored to meet rigorous operational demands, incorporating sophisticated sensor fusion, internal weapons bays for reduced radar cross-section, and compatibility with a wide array of precision-guided munitions. The presence of the Felon in Algerian service underscores a deliberate push toward fifth-generation fighter technology, positioning the Algerian Air Force among a select group globally equipped with such advanced stealth platforms.
The repeated appearances of the Su-57 Felon over Algeria demonstrate active flight operations, likely including familiarization sorties, systems validation, and potential integration with existing fleets like the Su-30 and Su-35. Observers note the aircraft's low-altitude flights over familiar landscapes, suggesting routine training and evaluation to build operational proficiency among Algerian pilots and ground crews. As the first non-Russian user, Algeria's program provides valuable real-world data for the platform's export evolution, potentially influencing future sales while bolstering Moscow's position in the global fighter market despite production constraints.
This development elevates discussions on air power balance in North Africa and the broader Mediterranean region, where the introduction of stealth-capable fighters like the Su-57 Felon could reshape deterrence postures and tactical scenarios. While official confirmations from Algerian or Russian authorities remain limited, the visual evidence of sustained flights signals steady progress in what promises to be a transformative addition to Algeria's defense capabilities. The Su-57 Felon's operational debut outside Russia thus marks a pivotal chapter in modern military aviation.