The Moroccan newspaper Assahifa recently published an article attempting to downplay Algeria’s acquisition of the heavy tactical bomber Sukhoi-34, and the possibility of obtaining the multi-role stealth fighter Sukhoi-57, by suggesting that Morocco’s air force modernization program — based on F-16 Block 72 fighter jets and Apache AH-64E helicopters — could match Algerian capabilities.
However, a serious technical military assessment shows that this comparison is nothing more than media rhetoric aimed at domestic consumption, and does not reflect the real gap in air power between the two countries.
1. Platforms That Cannot Be Compared
- Su-34 Fullback: A heavy tactical bomber with a combat range exceeding 3,000–4,000 km, capable of carrying over 8 tons of diverse weaponry, equipped with advanced navigation and attack systems enabling precise long-range strikes.
- Su-57: A fifth-generation fighter featuring stealth, super-maneuverability, multi-directional AESA radars, and a strong mix of air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities.
- F-16 Block 72: A lightweight, multi-role fourth-generation upgraded fighter, suitable for NATO doctrine, but limited in range, payload, and stealth when compared to heavy or stealth platforms like the Su-57.
Comparing the Su-34 or Su-57 to the F-16 is like comparing a heavy strategic truck to a sports car: each has a different role, but their power projection and deterrence capabilities are not equivalent.
2. Different Doctrines, but a Clear Power Gap
Algeria has adopted a heavy, long-range strike doctrine capable of neutralizing strategic targets thousands of kilometers away, while Morocco relies on a network-centric interoperability doctrine aligned with NATO systems — a reactive defensive approach that lacks true strategic independence.
3. The Illusion of “Parity”
Moroccan media tries to portray the situation as a balanced qualitative race, but the truth is that the gap in:
- Operational range
- Weapons payload
- Stealth and associated technologies
…clearly favors Algeria. Even with upgrades, Morocco’s F-16s cannot match the Su-34’s long-range strike capabilities or the Su-57’s aerial superiority and stealth features.
4. Logistics and Dependence
It is true that Algeria relies on Russia as its primary supplier, but it has a long-standing record of maintaining fleet readiness through stable maintenance and supply agreements.
Morocco, on the other hand, is entirely dependent on the United States for spare parts, armaments, and technical support. Any political tension with Washington could cripple its fleet within weeks.
5. Beyond the Aircraft: Strategic Depth
Air power is not only about the aircraft; it also includes:
- Air defense and radar systems
- Training doctrine and readiness
- The ability to operate independently from foreign dictates
In these aspects, Algeria possesses a dense air defense network, strategic strike capabilities, and greater operational flexibility.
Conclusion:
The suggestion that Morocco’s F-16s can match Algeria’s Sukhoi platforms is a propaganda narrative that does not withstand technical scrutiny. The gap between the two sides is not a “close match” but a clear imbalance in favor of Algeria — and military realities cannot be covered up with targeted media rhetoric.
By Belgacem Merbah
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