Algeria has strengthened its military support for Niger by donating four helicopters and associated equipment. The transfer consists of two Mi-24V attack helicopters and two Mi-171 transport aircraft, together with ammunition, spare parts, maintenance equipment and logistical assistance. The helicopters travelled from the In Guezzam base in southern Algeria to Niger’s capital, Niamey. Other equipment was delivered separately by Algerian military transport aircraft. Algiers described the package as part of its broader defence and security partnership with Niger. The assistance comes as Niger confronts persistent militant threats across the Sahel. The two countries share approximately 950 kilometres of border, an area exposed to militant activity and weapons trafficking. Niger’s aviation infrastructure has faced repeated attacks. In June, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin attacked Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey, which also houses a military airbase. Nigerien authorities said 11 soldiers and two civilians were killed. Earlier, fighters targeted a military drone facility at Tahoua Airport. Human Rights Watch has also raised concerns about civilian harm during Nigerien military operations.
