Algeria deployed four Su-30 jets, an Il-76 transport, and an Il-78 tanker to Niamey, Niger, after a failed military uprising last weekend.
The aircraft arrived at the base, adjacent to Diori Hamani International Airport, and mark Algeria’s first overseas military deployment.
The deployment comes after an attempted coup by several special forces units, which are typically involved in counter-jihadist operations in the Tillabéri and Dosso regions.
The uprising began on the night of August 28-29, with gunfire and explosions reported near the Presidency, the headquarters of Niger’s Radio and Television network, and Air Base 101.
According to a statement from Algeria’s Ministry of National Defence, the aircraft were sent at the request of Nigerien authorities to support the Nigerien armed forces against what they described as an “attempt to destabilize” the State.
The Algerian military does not appear to have taken part in suppressing the revolt.
Days before the air deployment, Algeria donated four helicopters, ammunition, spare parts, maintenance equipment, and logistical support to Niger’s armed forces.
Nigerien authorities said they regained control and restored calm by August 29. An official ceremony was held on August 30 at Air Base 101 to mark the arrival of the Algerian contingent.
Air Base 101 also hosts the Italian military mission, the last Western troops in Niger after the withdrawal of French, US, and German forces.
The base is also home to the Africa Corps, the Russian force under Moscow’s Ministry of Defence, and the joint headquarters of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which includes Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali.
The attempted uprising was thwarted with assistance from members of the Africa Corps.
This year, the airport and Air Base 101 have been targeted three times: on January 29 by the Islamic State in the Sahel, on June 18 by JNIM, and now by rebel soldiers.
Algeria has recently resumed relations with Mali after years of tension, which escalated after Mali withdrew from the 2015 Algiers Agreement. Mali has also accused Algiers of supporting or harboring certain armed groups.
The Algerian deployment at the AES joint headquarters could mark a turning point in relations between Bamako and Algiers.
Source: allAfrica.com