Algeria Military Forces 🇩🇿

The People's National Army (ANP) of Algeria stands as one of the most formidable military forces in Africa and the Arab world. Bolstered by a substantial and consistently growing defense budget, Algeria is in the midst of a comprehensive modernization program. This positions it as a key regional power, though it faces a complex set of strategic challenges.

Military Forces and Capabilities

The ANP is a large and conventionally powerful force, with approximately 130,000 active personnel and 150,000 reserves. The defense budget has seen a significant increase, reaching a record $25 billion in 2025, enabling an aggressive procurement and modernization strategy.

The Land Forces are the backbone of the ANP, equipped with a formidable arsenal primarily of Russian and Chinese origin. This includes over 600 modern T-90SA main battle tanks, alongside a large fleet of upgraded T-72s and T-62s. Its armored infantry and fire support capabilities are robust, featuring hundreds of BMP-2M and BMPT-72 "Terminator" armored fighting vehicles. Artillery is a mix of self-propelled and towed systems, providing significant long-range firepower.

The Algerian Air Force is one of the most advanced on the continent. Its combat edge is provided by a fleet of modern Russian fighter jets, including over 70 Su-30MKA multirole fighters and recently acquired Su-35s. These are complemented by MiG-29s for air superiority. The air force also operates a capable fleet of transport aircraft and attack helicopters, crucial for power projection and counter-terrorism operations across Algeria's vast territory.

The Algerian National Navy is undergoing a significant modernization to project power in the Western Mediterranean and secure Algeria's long coastline. Its capabilities are centered around a fleet of German-made MEKO A200 frigates and six Kilo-class submarines, which provide a potent anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) capability. The navy is also expanding its surface fleet with Chinese-built corvettes, some of which are being constructed in Algerian shipyards, highlighting a growing domestic defense industry.

Strategic Trends

Algeria's military posture is primarily shaped by its long-standing rivalry with Morocco. This has fueled an arms race between the two nations, with both investing heavily in advanced military technology. The unresolved issue of the Western Sahara remains a key point of contention and a potential flashpoint.

Beyond its rivalry with Morocco, Algeria sees itself as a key actor in maintaining stability in the volatile Sahel region. It has extensive experience in counter-terrorism operations and invests heavily in border security to combat militant groups and illicit trafficking.

Algeria's primary military partner is Russia, its main supplier of advanced weaponry. However, there is a clear trend towards diversification, with significant purchases from China and Germany. The development of a domestic defense industry, while still nascent, is a strategic priority aimed at reducing foreign dependence and fostering technological self-sufficiency.

Looking ahead, Algeria is likely to continue its military modernization, focusing on high-tech assets such as advanced air defense systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and potentially, fifth-generation fighter aircraft like the Su-57. This will further solidify its position as a major regional military power, but will also continue to fuel regional tensions, particularly with Morocco. The sustainability of this high level of military spending will, however, remain dependent on the country's hydrocarbon revenues.