Su-57
Recently, speculation has been growing about Algeria’s potential acquisition of Russia’s advanced Su-57 stealth fighter, with experts warning that the move could become “Spain’s worst nightmare.”
As geopolitical tensions rise and military alliances shift in North Africa, Spain is closely monitoring Algeria’s defense upgrades, particularly as it could soon be home to Russia’s most sophisticated aircraft.
This blog post explores the implications of Algeria’s Su-57 purchase for Spain’s national security and the broader stability of the Mediterranean and North African region.
Is Algeria’s acquisition of the Su-57 a threat to Spain’s air dominance?
Could the arrival of Algeria’s Su-57 in 2028 be Spain’s greatest concern? This is a question many military analysts are now asking, as reports suggest that Algeria might become the first foreign customer of Russia’s Su-57 aircraft.
The news has sent waves of concern through Spanish defense circles, as the arrival of such advanced stealth technology could significantly alter the balance of power in the region.
Algeria and Russia have a longstanding military relationship, with Algeria frequently purchasing Russian arms. The addition of the Su-57 to Algeria’s arsenal would place Spain in a vulnerable position, especially since this fighter is one of the few capable of competing with Western stealth jets like the American F-22 and F-35.
The Geopolitical Context: Algeria’s Growing Military Power
In 2023, Algeria reaffirmed its strategic partnership with Russia, intensifying the worry in Spain and beyond. Is Spain bracing for the arrival of Algeria’s Su-57 in 2028?
The development may seem like a distant threat, but it is strategically significant. Algeria already has a strong air force with MiG-29s, Su-30s, and even aging but active MiG-25s.
Now, Algeria plans to buy 14 Su-57 jets worth around $2 billion. These jets would seriously boost Algeria’s air power and challenge Spain’s air forces.
Algeria also has top-tier air defenses, including the powerful Russian-made S-400 system. This growing military strength could directly threaten Spain’s regional security. Spain is close to North Africa and faces ongoing disputes with Morocco.
Algeria’s Su-57: A Game-Changer for North African Stability
Algeria’s possible Su-57 deal raises big questions about regional peace and balance. When the Su-57 arrives in 2028, Spain worries that power dynamics in North Africa may change.
This fear comes from the jet’s advanced tech and changing politics in the region. Algeria might feel stronger in its disputes, especially with Morocco, once it gets the Su-57.
Spain also faces pressure from Morocco over Ceuta and Melilla, adding more tension. Russia and Algeria are working more closely together through arms deals and diplomacy.
That growing bond boosts Russia’s presence in North Africa and the Mediterranean. NATO and the EU may see such cooperation as a threat to regional stability.
Algeria’s Air Defence Systems: More Than Just the Su-57
Is Spain bracing for the arrival of Algeria’s Su-57 in 2028? Algeria’s impressive arsenal of air defense systems compounds the situation. The country has deployed multiple S-400 and S-300PMU2 air defense systems, alongside 108 Pantsir-S1 launchers.
These systems would not only protect Algeria’s growing fleet of modern fighter jets but also challenge Spain’s ability to maintain air superiority in the region.
In fact, experts argue that Spain might find it increasingly difficult to defend its southern borders, especially if Algeria were to use these advanced air defense systems to thwart any aerial incursions.
The potential addition of the Su-57, when combined with Algeria’s already formidable fleet of combat aircraft, could potentially tilt the balance in Algeria’s favor.
Is Morocco another concern for Spain?
As if Algeria’s military buildup wasn’t enough, Spain also faces challenges from Morocco. “Algeria’s Su-57 is coming in 2028” is Spain’s greatest fear.
However, this could only be one aspect of the situation. Morocco, too, has increasingly ambitious military goals. Morocco has made efforts to secure American F-35 jets, a next-generation fighter that would rival Spain’s own Eurofighter and Hornet fleets.
Spain’s reliance on 4th-generation aircraft, like the Eurofighter and the EF-18M Hornet, could leave it at a disadvantage in a potential conflict.
If Morocco were to succeed in acquiring the F-35 before Spain receives its own in 2040, this would further deepen Spain’s vulnerability to both its southern neighbors.
The Strategic Importance of Ceuta and Melilla
Another factor that complicates Spain’s security situation is its ongoing territorial dispute with Morocco over Ceuta and Melilla, two Spanish autonomous cities located in North Africa.
Morocco claims these territories, and their strategic position is crucial for Spain’s defense posture in the Mediterranean.
The possibility of Algeria acquiring the Su-57 jet could indirectly affect Spain’s ability to defend these territories, particularly if tensions with Morocco continue to rise.
Given the advanced nature of the Su-57 and Algeria’s growing missile and air defense capabilities, Spain may perceive itself as outmatched in any military scenario involving its North African territories.
Economic Implications of Algeria’s Military Expansion
“Algeria’s Su-57 is coming in 2028” is Spain’s greatest fear. also carries significant economic implications. Spain is a major trading partner of Algeria, particularly in the energy sector.
However, the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Western Sahara issue and the growing military ties between Algeria and Russia have already strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Algeria’s potential purchase of the Su-57 may worsen these tensions, especially as Spain continues to navigate its diplomatic position on the Western Sahara conflict.
With energy exports from Algeria critical to Spain’s economy, any further deterioration in relations could have serious consequences.
What Should Spain Do in Response to the Su-57 Threat?
In response to the possibility of Algeria acquiring the Su-57, Spain must reconsider its military strategies and enhance its defense capabilities.
“The arrival of Algeria’s Su-57 in 2028” is Spain’s greatest concern. It is not just a matter of acquiring more advanced aircraft but a question of broader strategic and diplomatic positioning.
Strengthening military cooperation with NATO and the EU, investing in new technologies, and reinforcing air defense systems would be crucial steps for Spain to secure its interests in the Mediterranean and North Africa.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Worst
The arrival of Algeria’s Su-57 jets by 2028 could fulfill Spain’s greatest fear. Spain can’t afford to ignore this threat anymore. Rising tensions in North Africa make Algeria’s advanced Russian jets a real concern for Spain’s security. Algeria already has strong fighter jets and air defenses.
Adding the Su-57 could tip the military balance even further in Algeria’s favor. Spain must now boost its defenses to stay ready for any scenario. It also needs to handle tricky diplomatic ties across North Africa and the Mediterranean.
References
- BulgarianMilitary.com—”Algeria’s Growing Military Strength and the Su-57.”
- Defense and Aviation—”The Su-57 and Its Impact on Regional Security.”
- International Defence Analysis—”Algeria: The First Export Customer for the Su-57?”
- “Scramble.nl—’Su-57: Potential Customer in North Africa.'”
- Reuters—”Spain and Algeria: A Strained Diplomatic Relationship.”
- Defence Analysis
- Bulgarian Military
- Scramble
