Algeria Delivers Modernized Mi-24, Mi-171 Helicopters to Niger
Algeria has delivered two modernized Mi-24 SuperHind Mk.III attack helicopters and two Mi-171 helicopters to Niger, providing a substantial enhancement to the recipient nation's defense capabilities. This transfer, which occurred in early August, marks a notable step in regional security cooperation. Prior to this assistance from Algeria, Niger's armed forces reportedly operated only two Mi-35 attack helicopters and one Mi-17.
The Mi-24 SuperHind Mk.III helicopters underwent a significant modernization process, which notably involved the Ukrainian defense enterprise Aviakon in collaboration with the South African company ATE. This extensive upgrade transformed the Soviet-era Mi-24s, replacing the original nose machine gun with a 20-millimeter automatic cannon, equipped with an 800-round ammunition capacity. Further enhancements included the integration of South African-developed Ingwe laser-guided anti-tank missiles, capable of striking targets up to 5,000 meters away. The helicopters' onboard systems were also updated with a laser rangefinder, a thermal imager, and an optoelectronic camera, housed within a spherical module on the nose, while their airframes were reinforced with modern composite materials.
Algeria, which had 33 Mi-24 helicopters modernized between 1999 and 2004, maintained approximately 30 of these advanced machines in service at the beginning of the current year, alongside a fleet of up to 42 Russian-made Mi-28 attack helicopters. This recent delivery to Niger, involving cooperation that reportedly proceeded independently of Moscow, underscores Algeria's commitment to supporting stability in the Sahel region and demonstrates an active regional partnership.
