ALGERIAN PATRIOTS - ENGLISH

The long-standing conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front could witness a new escalation with the introduction of attack drones into the Sahrawi army’s arsenal. Until now, Morocco had a clear technological advantage due to its use of armed drones, primarily supplied by Israel and Turkey. However, recent statements by Sahrawi diplomat Brahim Mokhtar suggest that the Polisario also intends to acquire this military technology, potentially reshaping the balance of power on the ground. Morocco’s Use of Drones: A Strategic Advantage Since the resumption of hostilities in November 2020, Morocco has intensified its use of drones to target Polisario positions in the Western Sahara. Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones and Israeli Harop loitering munitions have allowed Moroccan forces to conduct precision strikes on Sahrawi fighters, significantly reducing casualties among Moroccan troops. These attacks have forced the Polisario to adapt its tactics, limiting large-scale troop movements and ...

Algeria has taken a significant step in modernizing its air force by becoming the first foreign country to acquire the Russian Su-57 "Felon" stealth fighter . This strategic deal, which includes 14 Su-57s, 14 Su-34 bombers, and 14 Su-35 fighters , reinforces Algeria’s position as a leading military power in Africa and the Mediterranean region . A Carefully Calculated Military Build-Up Negotiations for this ambitious contract began in 2019 at the MAKS Air Show in Moscow. The Algerian delegation, led by Major General Boumaiza , commander of the Algerian Air Force, conducted a thorough assessment of the Su-57’s performance, including simulator tests. As a former MiG-29 pilot , his expertise played a decisive role in selecting this fifth-generation aircraft. With this acquisition, Algeria joins an elite group of nations with a modern and diversified air fleet. By mid-2026 , its air force will be equipped with: A squadron of Su-57 stealth fighters A squadron of Su-35 air super...

The military balance between Morocco and Algeria is a crucial strategic issue in North Africa . For decades, both nations have been engaged in a relentless arms race , with a strong focus on modernizing their air forces. However, a significant shift in aerial supremacy appears to be taking shape , with Morocco strengthening its air power through the delivery of F-16V Block 70 fighters in 2023, armed with AIM-120C/D missiles . Meanwhile, Algeria struggles to modernize its fleet of Su-30MKAs, which remain constrained by the absence of modern long-range air-to-air missiles , potentially reshaping the region’s military balance. This imbalance raises several concerns: Could Morocco exploit its air superiority to adopt a more aggressive stance? Is Algeria at risk of losing air dominance, making it vulnerable to Moroccan strategic moves? Does Algeria’s lack of modern BVR (Beyond Visual Range) missiles give Morocco a decisive tactical edge in any potential air conflict? In this analysis, we wi...