Algerian Air Force goes amphibious

After a long process the al-Quwwat al-Jawwiya al-Jaza'iriya (Algerian Air Force / Force Aérienne Algérienne) has ordered four Beriev Be-200ES Altair multirole amphibious aircraft (water bombers) with an option for four more, following fires that affected several regions of the country.

On 17 August 2021, the Ministry of National Defense of Algeria issued a press release stating that, it had entered into negotiations with manufacturers of fire-fighting aircraft and opted for the Russian Be-200 aircraft. On 23 August 2021, the head of the UAC, Yuri Slyusar, reported that Algeria had sent an official request for the supply of four Be-200 amphibious aircraft. The conclusion of this contract was not officially announced.

Taganrog Aviation Scientific and Technical Complex (Beriev) began to execute the contract in February 2022, by ordering materials for a total amount of more than 385 million rubles (USD 5,4 million). According to documents, the ordered units and materials should be delivered to the plant in 2022-2023.

One of the contracts concluded involves the supply of components from Switzerland - engine vibration control units, cable assemblies, front and rear support accelerometers. The contract value is SFR 740,000 (USD 800.000). It is possible that these items may be subject to sanctions and prohibited from being exported to Russia.

Early January 2023, the first aircraft has appeared fully painted in Algerian markings at the Beriev manufacturing plant and is registered 7T-VPV. It is reported that the first aircraft wil be used for training aircrew. A second Be-200ES is expected to roll-out in March 2023.

Photo via social media The Algerian Armed Forces