Russian Fighter Jets Up For Grabs

In March, Russia's defense export giant Rosoboronexport signed a supply contract for 16 Su-30MKI (A) with Algeria. The estimated value of this deal may reach approximately $1 billion. Additionally, a contract for the delivery of six Su-30MK2 to Uganda was signed in March. The amount of the transaction may not be very high - up to $200 million, but it is the first time when new heavy fighters are purchased in sub-Saharan Africa.

Photo: Russian Fighter Jets Up For Grabs

Earlier, there were negotiations with Uganda regarding sale of six lighter MiG-29, Vedomosti reports referring to sources close to the heads of the department. This deal with Algeria is exercising of the option agreed upon back in 2006, during the signing of the contract with Algeria regarding the supply of 28 fighter aircraft of this type, which ended in 2009.

Algeria is engaged in re-arming of its air force with new generation planes. It makes the contract for the delivery of additional aircraft produced by Irkut Corporation a logical step, experts believe.

Heavy fighters like Su-27/30 have not been widely spread in Africa until now. Besides Algeria that purchased a batch of Su-30 МК I, over 30 jet fighters Su-27 from Russia’s Air Force were supplied to Algeria, Angola, Ethiopia, and Eritrea. There are also negotiations regarding the supply of 12 fighters Su-35 to Libya.