Algeria pivots to China for naval strength, sidelines Russia
The Algerian Ministry of Defense has unveiled a plan to begin constructing Chinese Type 056 corvettes at local shipyards, thereby moving away from the long-negotiated agreement to acquire Russian Project 22380 missile corvettes.
The Chinese corvette, developed by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding Group, one of the world's leading shipbuilders, stands as one of the most advanced naval vessels in Africa. Algeria intends to purchase six additional units, with at least one to be constructed in a local shipyard.
With this objective, Algeria has initiated an expansion of the shipyard in Annaba in partnership with Italy. Upon completion, the shipyard will be able to produce corvette-class warships with a hull length of up to 50 metres.
Russia loses market
Russia has been attempting to sell its warships to Algeria for years, offering, among its options, Vasily Bykov-class Project 22160 corvettes and Project 22380 corvettes equipped with Kh-35 missiles. However, the Chinese ships gained an advantage, delivering a significant setback to Russia, which regarded Algeria as a steadfast client.
China is rapidly securing a foothold in Algeria's arms market, providing, among other products, YJ-12B cruise missiles, CH-4 and WJ-700 drones, WM-80 rocket artillery systems, and HQ-9B air defence systems. Algeria is also contemplating the acquisition of Chinese VT-4 tanks.
Cooperation with China
This shift in trading partners is notable, given that over 85 percent of the equipment in the Algerian army originates from Russia.
Algeria is still finalizing the purchase of Su-57 fighter jets from Russia and has previously procured Project 877 and 636.6 submarines.
