Algeria is reportedly on the verge of acquiring combat aircraft and Airborne Early Warning and Control (AWACS) systems from China, marking a significant shift in the nation's military procurement strategy as these would be the first fighter jets not sourced from Russia. According to the open-source intelligence network 'OSINTWarfare', the Algerian Air Force (AAF) is expected to receive deliveries of the Chinese multi-role fighter jets J-10C starting next year. Additionally, it appears that Algeria has also ordered KJ-500 early warning aircraft. Until now, the country has operated without an AWACS platform and has relied on ground-based systems along with a limited number of small reconnaissance aircraft.
The majority of Algeria's military technology has traditionally been derived from Russia, with older equipment tracing back to the Soviet era. The North African nation primarily operates aircraft such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKA, MiG-29M/M2, and Su-24M2. Recently, Algeria has also integrated more advanced combat jets like the Su-57E and Su-34M, becoming the first foreign customer for both models.
Since the cessation of diplomatic relations with Morocco in 2021, both countries have been accelerating their military enhancements. This rivalry is largely attributed to Algeria's support for the independence of Western Sahara, a territory that Morocco has occupied since the 1970s. The United States backs Morocco, while Algeria leans on support from Russia and China. Given that China is one of Algeria's key trading partners, the potential purchase of these aircraft, should it be confirmed, is not entirely surprising. The J-10C, with an estimated price tag of around 50 million euros (excluding armaments, training, and spare parts), is particularly appealing due to its cost-effectiveness compared to other 4.5-generation aircraft.
In comparison to its predecessor, the J-10A, the J-10C variant is capable of carrying the long-range PL-15 missile, features a modern AESA radar system, and boasts enhanced stealth characteristics. The J-10C has been operational in China since April 2018, and Pakistan has deployed these multi-role jets since 2022. The Chinese fighters have proven their capabilities in operations, including participation in an aerial battle with India, where they were credited with at least one confirmed kill in 2025.
This success has significantly heightened international interest in the fighter, earning it the nickname 'Rafale Killer'. Countries such as Indonesia, Bangladesh, Serbia, Egypt, and Venezuela have expressed interest in acquiring the J-10, although there are no officially confirmed additional operators at present.
The Shaanxi KJ-500 would represent Algeria's first airborne early warning and control system. Currently, this aircraft is only in service in China, although Pakistan has also shown interest in acquiring the system. Estimates suggest that the Chinese military operates around 60 KJ-500 aircraft, including several of the newer KJ-500A variant.
In Algeria, military capabilities remain limited, with only six pure reconnaissance aircraft, all of which are Beechcraft King Air 350 models. However, some Chinese reconnaissance drones have expanded the country’s operational capabilities in recent years.
As reported by flugrevue.de.
