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Algeria’s Acquisition of the Su‑57E: A Strategic Shift Reshaping the Maghreb Balance of Power

Algeria’s acquisition of the Russian Su‑57E, one of the world’s most advanced fifth‑generation fighter jets, marks a major development in the regional military landscape. Frequently compared to the American F‑35 for its stealth and advanced combat capabilities, the aircraft’s entry into Algerian service signals a significant technological leap with far‑reaching strategic consequences for the Maghreb.

A Technological Breakthrough with Regional Implications

By introducing the Su‑57E into its arsenal, Algeria becomes the first Arab and African country to deploy a fifth‑generation fighter jet.
Images circulating online, followed by official confirmation of an order estimated at a dozen aircraft, reinforce analysts’ assessments that Algeria is pursuing a long‑term strategy centered on:

  • strengthening its deterrence posture,
  • maintaining a qualitative edge in its neighborhood,
  • and consolidating its strategic autonomy through diversified defense partnerships.

This approach aligns with Algeria’s longstanding doctrine aimed at preserving independence in its military procurement and safeguarding regional stability.

A Moroccan Reaction Driven by Psychological and Media Dynamics

In Morocco, the announcement generated a strong psychological and political reaction.
Rather than initiating an internal debate on capability renewal or strategic adaptation, Rabat chose to internationalize the issue through media channels, particularly in France, Israel, and certain English‑language platforms.

One notable example appeared on The Times of Israel website, where a commentator close to Moroccan security circles openly urged Washington to impose sanctions on Algeria under U.S. legislation targeting partners of the Russian defense industry. The article even mentioned Sonatrach among potential targets—a reflection of political signaling rather than a realistic strategic assessment.

This media campaign was also fueled by Morocco’s frustration after its unsuccessful attempt to obtain Lockheed Martin F‑35s, despite sustained lobbying. The United States, concerned with controlling the spread of sensitive technologies, opted instead to continue its more traditional partnership with Rabat through upgraded F‑16s.

A Recurring Structural Pattern: Externalizing Power Dynamics

These developments highlight a familiar pattern in Moroccan diplomacy: the tendency to externalize regional power balances by seeking support from third‑party actors.

This approach relies heavily on:

  • Israel, with which strategic cooperation has intensified since 2020,
  • France, traditionally supportive of Moroccan positions,
  • the United Arab Emirates, whose political and financial backing reinforces Rabat’s regional posture.

This network of alliances shapes Morocco’s strategic environment but also underscores a structural dependency that limits its autonomous decision‑making.

Washington’s Pragmatic Stance: Prioritizing Stability Over Confrontation

Contrary to Moroccan expectations, the U.S. response has been marked by a steady emphasis on Algeria’s importance as a stabilizing actor. American officials regularly highlight:

  • Algeria’s central role in counterterrorism,
  • operational coordination in the Sahel and Mediterranean,
  • and the necessity of sustained security dialogue in a region marked by volatility.

With Libya’s continuing instability and the fragility of Sahelian states, Washington favors a balanced, stability‑focused approach, avoiding escalatory measures that could undermine coordination with key regional partners.
As a result, Moroccan appeals for sanctions appear largely disconnected from U.S. strategic priorities.

Algeria Reaffirms Its Sovereignty

Amid the media pressure, Algeria issued a clear and unequivocal message.

Algeria is free, and no one dictates its partnerships.

This declaration underscores a core principle of Algerian diplomacy:
strategic decisions, especially regarding defense partnerships, remain strictly within the realm of national sovereignty and are not subject to external influence.

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