A Su-34M in desert livery spotted near Moscow suggests progress in the delivery of a modern attack bomber to Algeria.
A Sukhoi Su-34M in export configuration was observed at Zhukovsky Airport near Moscow on August 8, 2025. This sighting seriously revives speculation about a delivery of Su-34Ms to Algeria as part of a contract first mentioned in 2019. This modernized version of the Russian tactical bomber combines avionics advances and enhanced capability to deploy precision-guided weapons. This information deserves attention, as it sheds light on Algeria’s aviation modernization strategy, consistent with other recent acquisitions, including Sukhoi Su-35s and Su-57Es. Beyond the technical offer, this scenario illustrates enhanced military cooperation between Moscow and Algiers in a geopolitical context where air capabilities play a role in regional balance. The following analysis is intended for informed readers and includes specific data from open sources.
The context of the Su-34M contract with Algeria
The program to supply 14 Su-34ME (modernized export version) to Algeria dates back to December 2019. The agreement also included 14 Su-35E and 14 Su-57E. Deliveries were scheduled to be completed in 2025.
However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 disrupted this schedule. Priority was given to rebuilding the domestic Su-34 fleet, which was heavily deployed on the Ukrainian front. According to the Oryx Group’s census, at least 37 Su-34s and one Su-34M have been lost since February 2022. This toll has likely delayed military exports.
Visual confirmation of the Su-34M in desert livery
In May 2025, a video showed a Su-34 with a brown and yellow camouflage scheme typical of desert areas. This livery is not used by the Russian forces and has sparked speculation. The aircraft may have been produced for export, most likely to Algeria or possibly Iran.
On August 8, 2025, the same Su-34M in export configuration was spotted in Zhukovsky. This movement indicates a possible concrete start of delivery. This sighting is a strong technical signal: the aircraft is ready and the agreement could be finalized in the coming weeks or months.
Technical characteristics of the Su-34M
The Su-34 is a fast, supersonic, two-seat fighter aircraft designed for ground attack and naval strike missions, with a range of 4,000 km when fully loaded and air-to-air refueling capability.
The Su-34M version, in production since 2022, incorporates modernized avionics: Pika-M radar, infrared targeting pod, Kopyo-DL rear radar warning receiver, electronic jamming capabilities, and an expanded range of guided munitions, including long-range cruise missiles. This configuration allows it to operate day and night in environments saturated with anti-radar and electronic warfare.
Challenges for Algeria
The arrival of the Su-34ME would equip the Algerian air force with a precise land and sea strike capability. Algiers is pursuing a deterrence strategy, particularly with regard to its neighbor Morocco, which has F-16s and F-35s supplied by Italy.
Furthermore, the modernization is part of a strategy of industrial and operational consistency. Algeria already operates a large number of Sukhoi platforms (Su-30MKA, Su-24MK2, MiG-29M). The integration of the Su-34ME builds on existing skills, which facilitates training, maintenance, and interoperability.
Military-technical supplement: other Russian acquisitions
At the same time, Su-35s were delivered to Algeria in early 2025. These aircraft were initially intended for Egypt, but were redirected to Algiers in the face of Western geopolitical pressure.
Algeria is also expected to receive around six Su-57Es by the end of 2025, making it the first foreign customer for this fifth-generation aircraft.
A clear-headed assessment of the situation
The discovery of the export version of the Su-34M reveals that Russia is reviving a suspended delivery program. Algeria is positioning itself to strengthen its ground and sea strike capabilities. The stakes are clear: to have a modern, reliable fleet that is adapted to regional threats.
Admittedly, the situation in Ukraine has slowed Russian exports, but the use of camouflage patterns adapted to the desert shows that production for export is continuing.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.