Algeria and Russia have moved rapidly to give military support to Niger to put down a military mutiny on the night of August 28 and 29. On Aug. 30 Algeria sent military aircraftto Niger including four Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets; an IL-76 military transport aircraft, and  an IL-78 refueling aircraft. Earlier in the month, on August 9, Algeria sent four helicopters, including two powerful Russian-built Hind helicopter gunships, which were delivered to Niamey.  

As soon as the mutiny plotters launched their attack, a detachment of Russia’s Africa Corps  joined Niger’s national armed forces, and repelled the attacks which targeted government facilities in Niamey on Aug. 29. By evening the situation was brought under control by the legitimate authorities, led by President Abdourahamane Tiani, the ministry added.