Algerian Air Force's Su-57 fighter jet revealed.

Images and videos from Algerian sources show that the Su-57 stealth fighter has entered service with the country.

Báo Khoa học và Đời sống•09/02/2026

Two videos circulating from sources in Algeria are considered the first visual evidence confirming that the Su-57 is in service in this North African country. Previously, in November 2025, Algeria reportedly received its first two Su-57s, marking a major milestone not only for the Algerian Air Force but also for the Russian defense industry.

This deal marks the first time Russia has sold its only operational stealth fighter jet. Simultaneously, Algeria has become the first country in Africa, the Arab world , and the bloc of Muslim nations to possess a fifth-generation fighter jet.

The appearance of the Su-57 in Algeria signals a new order in the region. Photo: The Cradle

According to several analyses, the Su-57 is likely to replace Algeria's aging MiG-25PD interceptor aircraft. While the MiG-25 was once renowned as one of the fastest aircraft in the world, the Su-57 surpasses it in terms of supersonic cruising capability, long-range air-to-air combat, and operational capabilities in modern combat environments, making it an ideal successor for strategic air defense missions.

Algeria is reportedly ordering a total of 14 Su-57s, with the possibility of purchasing more in the future to gradually replace part of its MiG-29 and Su-30MKA fleet. Speaking about the delivery of the aircraft in mid-November 2025, the Director of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), Vadim Badekha, affirmed that the Su-57 fighters "have entered a state of combat readiness and are demonstrating their best capabilities," while emphasizing that the Algerian customer is very satisfied.

The Su-57 was spotted flying alongside a Su-30MKA, suggesting Algeria has received the fifth-generation fighter jet.

Experts assess that, even in small numbers, the Su-57 can still act as a "combat force," significantly enhancing the overall strength of the Algerian Air Force. The aircraft is equipped with five active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars positioned around the fuselage, allowing for simultaneous tracking of up to 60 targets. The Su-57's radar and electronic warfare systems are considered superior to all other aircraft currently in Algeria's inventory, particularly effective in contested airspace thanks to its stealth capabilities and advanced electronic jamming.

Russia's official start to export the Su-57 is expected to increase the fighter's appeal on the international market. India is considered the biggest potential customer, with negotiations for the licensed production of at least 140 Su-57s entering the advanced engineering phase. The Indian Ministry of Defence is also reportedly considering developing a deeply customized Su-57 variant with Russia to meet its specific requirements.

If implemented, this bespoke variant development model could attract more customers, including possibly Algeria. Currently, the backbone of the Algerian Air Force consists of over 70 Su-30MKA aircraft, which have been heavily customized and integrated with technology from various programs such as the Su-27, Su-30, Su-27M, and Su-37. Following a similar "bespoke" development path for the Su-57 is considered entirely feasible.

The Algerian Air Force has long been considered the strongest air force in the African region and the Arab world. NATO's military intervention in Libya in 2011 was seen as a major impetus for the country to invest more heavily in modernizing its air combat capabilities. Since 2020, there have been many indications that Algeria has seriously pursued the Su-57, with military officials appearing on state television with a model of the Su-57 during meetings with the Russian side.

A composite image of the Su-57 was also displayed at the Algerian Ministry of Defense, showing that the decision to purchase had been made early. By February 12, 2025, Algerian state media officially confirmed that the first Su-57s would be delivered before January 2026, after which Russia reaffirmed the start date for export deliveries.