Su-57 Felon fighter seen again flying over Algeria

New video footage circulating online appears to show a Sukhoi Su-57 Felon stealth fighter operating in Algerian Air Force service during a flight over Algeria, providing what observers describe as another visual indication of Russia’s export delivery of the fifth-generation aircraft.

The emergence of the footage comes as reports continue to surface regarding Algeria’s acquisition of the Su-57 Felon, a development closely watched because it relates to Russia’s effort to secure the first foreign operator of its fifth-generation fighter. The appearance of a Su-57 Felon in Algerian service, if confirmed, would indicate progress in deliveries tied to previously disclosed contract timelines.

The video, shared across defense monitoring channels and social media platforms, allegedly shows a Russia-supplied Su-57E conducting a flight somewhere over Algerian territory. Algerian authorities have not officially confirmed operational service, but the new footage corresponds with earlier information revealed through leaked documents linked to the Russian state defense conglomerate Rostec.

According to leaked contract materials attributed to Rostec, Algeria signed an agreement covering the delivery of 12 Su-57 fighter jets. The documents indicate a phased delivery schedule consisting of two aircraft in 2025, six aircraft in 2026, and four aircraft in 2028.

The leak also indicates that export components intended for Algeria’s Su-57 Felon and Su-34 fleets are scheduled for supply between 2024 and 2026. These timelines align with earlier reporting that Algeria had entered advanced negotiations with Russia for procurement of the stealth fighter.

If verified, Algeria would become the first foreign operator of the Su-57. Russia has promoted the export variant as a central element of its defense export strategy following years of limited production and gradual domestic induction.

Russia’s own inventory of Su-57 aircraft remains relatively small. Taking into account prototypes and early production units, the total fleet is estimated at approximately 20 to 25 aircraft currently in existence.

In June 2024, Ukrainian drone strikes targeted the aircraft parking area at Akhtubinsk air base in Russia’s Astrakhan region, where several Su-57 Felon fighters were reportedly stationed. Open-source imagery following the attack indicated damage to aircraft positioned at the facility.

Technically, the Su-57 Felon is designed as a fifth-generation multirole fighter incorporating reduced radar visibility, advanced avionics, and sensor fusion intended to improve pilot situational awareness. The aircraft is capable of conducting both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions and is marketed by Russia as a stealth platform intended to operate in contested airspace.

The export configuration, designated Su-57E, is adapted for international customers and may include modified systems aligned with export requirements. Russia has sought overseas buyers to sustain production lines and expand the aircraft’s presence in global fighter markets.