Niger: After Sending Four Su-30s in August, Algeria Deploys Ground Troops

Algerian troops arrived in northern Niger over the weekend of October 31, 2026, according to Nigerien media. The ground deployment follows the arrival of four Su-30 fighter jets in Niamey on August 30, at the Nigerien authorities’ request, after a mutiny in the capital. Algeria’s Parliament approved sending troops on October 25 to protect energy interests and economic equipment, and the presidency confirmed the decision the following day. Senator Belkacem Boulghiti said the units were not intended to engage in a war in Niger; their numbers have not been disclosed.