LONDON -- Algeria has a major problem after learning its new Russian origin aircraft could not match the F-16s planned for purchase by Morocco.
Industry sources said the Algerian Air Force has been dismayed over the performance of the MiG-29SMT multi-role aircraft delivered by Moscow. The sources said Algiers has assessed that the MiG-29 could not defeat the latest model F-16s approved by Rabat.
"Algeria spent a tremendous amount of money and political capital on modernizing its military and now realizes that it's not enough," a source familiar with Algeria's defense program said.
Algeria has forced Moscow to reacquire 15 MiG-29SMTs after the air force determined that the aircraft contained 1990s fuselages. The air force, which flew each plane for up to 90 hours, determined that the MiGs fell short of their promised performance levels and suspended deliveries. In all, Algeria ordered 26 MiG-29SMT and six MiG-29UB fighters in a $1.3 billion contract.
In contrast, Morocco plans to order 24 F-16 Block 52+ aircraft, the most modern platform in the U.S. Air Force. The multi-role fighters, estimated to cost $2.4 billion, contain radar, avionics, electronic warfare and weapons that are far more advanced than those ordered by Algeria.
"There is no question about it: Morocco's F-16s will dominate the sky," an Algerian defense analyst said.
The Algerian Air Force has higher hopes for Russia's Su-30 fighter. Algiers has ordered 28 Su-30MK fighters for $1.5 billion, and has received four of the aircraft. So far, the air force has no plans to return the Sukhois.
The sources said aides to President Abdul Aziz Bouteflika have urged that Algiers procure Western aircraft. They pointed to France's offer to sell the Rafale fighter-jet, manufactured by Dassault Aviation.
"Algeria is a powerful country with very strong ties to Britain, France and the United States," the analyst said. "There's no reason that Algeria has to settle for cast-off planes."
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