The Algerian Air Force is ready to receive Russian Su-35 generation 4++ fighters instead of the fifth-generation Su-57 aircraft. This purchase will make the North African country the third Su-35 operator after Russia and China, according to Bulgarian Military, citing sources.
It is assumed that the Su-35 fighters are part of a batch originally produced for the Egyptian Air Force. Egypt placed this order in 2018 but later abandoned it due to the threat of Western sanctions.
Algeria was expected to buy the Su-57 from Russia, which is considered a more advanced fighter than the Su-35. However, according to Bulgarian Military, Russia may be insisting on a deal for fourth-generation aircraft due to delays in the production of the Su-57.
Supplying the Su-35 at a price below market value may be Russia's strategy to maintain its crucial defense relationships.
Read more on the topic:
"Vicious Bird" Su-35 — The Best Russian Fighter — "The National Interest"
Evading Patriot and NASAMS: Russians Use Su-35 Fighters Like Americans and British Did 80 Years Ago