A Sukhoi Su-34 heavy strike fighter, reportedly destined for the al-Quwwat al-Jawwiya al-Jaza’iriya (Force Aérienne Algérienne, FAA – Algerian Air Force), has been spotted during a routine test flight at Zhukovsky, Russia. The aircraft sports a striking and unusual colour scheme, distinctly different from any Su-34 liveries seen to date.
By Jarryd Sinovich
This aircraft—or a sister ship—was first photographed in May 2025 during flight tests at the Novosibirsk Chkalov Aviation Plant, the Su-34’s manufacturing and testing facility. The recent photos, taken on 6 August 2025 and shared via Telegram channel spotting_tema, now provide the clearest confirmation yet of Algeria’s long-speculated acquisition of the Fullback (NATO reporting name).
Speculation around a possible Algerian Su-34 order began as early as 2016, with unconfirmed reports suggesting a purchase of between 12 and 20 aircraft. In March 2021, stronger—but still unofficial—sources claimed Algeria had signed for 14 aircraft, with deliveries initially slated to begin in late 2021 and conclude by 2023. Training of Algerian pilots and technicians in Russia was observed during 2022, further supporting the likelihood of the deal.
However, timelines slipped, likely due to the disruption caused by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Despite the delays, this latest sighting marks a major step forward in Algeria’s efforts to modernise its air combat capabilities.
The Su-34s are not arriving in isolation. In early March 2024, it was confirmed that the FAA had received its first Su-35 “Flanker-E” multirole fighters, with four aircraft noted at Aïn Beïda/Oum El Bouaghi Air Base. These are believed to be part of a 14-aircraft order signed in 2019, possibly expanding to 20 units.
Rounding out this trio of next-generation Russian aircraft, Algeria made headlines in February 2025 when it became the first confirmed export customer for the Su-57 “Felon” fifth-generation stealth fighter. An undisclosed number of Su-57s—again possibly 14—are on order, with Algerian pilots currently undergoing conversion training in Russia. Deliveries are expected to begin in late 2025.
With the introduction of the Su-34, Su-35, and Su-57, the Algerian Air Force is undergoing one of its most significant modernisation phases in recent history—placing it among the most advanced air arms on the African continent.
