Strana 25
with engine consumption, significant thermal
signature, and an outdated radar. Algeria
subsequently took over these rejected aircraft.
Given the confirmed losses of Su-30/34/35
series aircraft in Ukraine, reportedly reaching
67 planes, it can not be assumed that Algerian
pilots would fare significantly better in combat.
The Algerian training fleet consists of several
types. Basic training is conducted on the Czech
propeller-driven Zlín Z-142, while advanced
and weapons training takes place on Czech jet
aircraft Aero L-39 Albatros in C or ZA versions,
together with the Russian Yakovlev Yak-130
(16 units). There are 43 Albatros aircraft in total,
of which 36 are ZA light attack variants and the
remaining seven are C-version trainers. These
jet aircraft can also be used on a limited scale
for strike missions against ground targets,
but only in areas with neutralized enemy air
defenses and with a limited range of munitions.
The helicopter force represents a significant
component of the inventory and provides
comprehensive support for both ground and air
operations. It is equipped with Mi-24 combat
helicopters (32 units) and 42 Mi-28s. These
are complemented by transport, liaison, and
rescue types such as the Mi-2, Mi-8/17/171,
Mi-26, AS355, and Ka-27.
It is also important to mention liaison,
transport, and special-purpose aircraft, as
they support combat operations as well. Among
transport aircraft, the proven Lockheed C-130
stands out, with 18 planes available, along with
the newer Airbus C-295 (5 planes) and the
Il-76, of which there are eleven ships. A key
component consists of Il-78 aerial refueling
tankers, with 5–6 aircraft available to the
Algerian Air Force. Additional smaller liaison
and transport types are also in service. For
electronic support of combat missions, nine
Beechcraft Twin Bonanza turboprop aircraft
are available, capable of conducting electronic
reconnaissance and jamming.
Unmanned aerial vehicles must not be
overlooked either. The Algerian Air Force
Algerian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MK at Irkutsk-2 Air Base, Russia.
Photo: Alexey Korshunov
Algerian Air Force Su-34 fighter-bomber. Photo: Baracho Didi
Algerian Air Force Ilyushin Il-76TD (7T
-
WIP), photographed in 2021. Photo: Anna Zvereva
Algerian Air Force Safir 142 (7T
-
VFB), a licence-built Czech Zlín 142, photographed in South Africa in 2000.
Photo: Bob Adams
ALGERIAN AIR FORCE
INFO Eduard
25
March 2026