Algeria has strengthened its military support for Niger by transferring two Mi-24V attack helicopters and two Mi-171 transport helicopters, together with ammunition, spare parts, maintenance equipment and logistical assistance.
The aircraft were flown from the Algerian deployment base at In Guezzam to Niger’s capital, Niamey. Supporting equipment and ammunition were moved separately aboard an Algerian military transport aircraft.
Algiers described the delivery as part of the wider defence and security relationship between the neighbouring states. Their shared border extends for about 950 kilometres across the Sahel, an area affected by militant violence, weapons smuggling and other security threats.
The assistance arrives while Niger faces continued pressure from armed groups associated with al-Qaeda and Islamic State. The country’s military authorities seized power in July 2023 and have since faced persistent attacks, including strikes against aviation facilities used for security operations.
Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey was attacked in June by fighters from Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, an al-Qaeda affiliate. The airport also contains a military airbase, and Nigerien authorities said the assault killed 11 soldiers and two civilians.
A separate attack occurred several months earlier at a military drone facility at Tahoua Airport. Nigerien forces repelled the assault, although soldiers were wounded and attackers were killed.
The country’s counterterrorism campaign has also generated concern over civilian harm. Human Rights Watch said an apparent Nigerien drone strike struck a busy market, reportedly killing at least 17 civilians, including four children, and injuring at least 13 people.
