Algeria Advances Space Ambitions with Successful Launch of Alsat-3A Satellite

On January 15, 2026, Algeria marked a significant milestone in its technological evolution with the successful deployment of its sixth national satellite, Alsat-3A. The mission commenced at 12:01 PM China Standard Time from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. A two-stage Long March 2C (Changzheng-2C) carrier rocket was utilized to propel the spacecraft into its designated orbit, signaling a new era for the North African nation's orbital capabilities.

This mission represented China’s third space launch of 2026 and served to solidify the strategic alliance between the Algerian Space Agency (ASAL) and the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). The operation was monitored from Algeria under the high-level supervision of General of the Army Saïd Chengriha. Serving as the Minister Delegate for National Defense and Chief of Staff of the People's National Army (PNA), his presence underscored the strategic importance the Algerian government places on its burgeoning space assets.

Developed through close collaboration with Chinese technical entities, Alsat-3A is engineered to drastically enhance Algeria's remote sensing capabilities. The satellite's mission profile includes high-precision cartography, the management of vital natural resources, and disaster risk mitigation. Technically, the apparatus features a 17.5 km swath width and a rapid three-day revisit time, providing the high-frequency data necessary for real-time environmental and security monitoring.

This launch fulfills the first part of a dual-satellite agreement for optical remote sensing signed in July 2023 between CASC and ASAL. The comprehensive contract follows a "turnkey" approach, ensuring that Algeria receives not only the hardware but also the necessary ground infrastructure, comprehensive personnel training, and ongoing technical support. This model is increasingly seen as a blueprint for developing space sovereignty across the African continent.

The Long March 2C rocket, the workhorse behind the Alsat-3A deployment, was designed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT). Standing 42 meters tall, the vehicle utilizes a propellant combination of nitrogen tetroxide and unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine. Notably, this mission marked the 626th flight within the storied Long March rocket family, demonstrating the reliability of the platform used for this critical Algerian payload.

This success builds upon a foundation of bilateral cooperation that began in earnest in December 2017 with the launch of Alcomsat-1, Algeria's first communications satellite. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, extended his congratulations to the nation, characterizing the Alsat-3A launch as a transformative leap for Africa’s geospatial and space-faring potential. The data harvested is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving the continental objectives outlined in the African Union’s "Agenda 2063."

Alsat-3A joins an expanding fleet managed by the Algerian Space Agency, which has been active since its inception in 2002. The current constellation includes the Alsat-2A and Alsat-2B satellites, launched in 2010 and 2016 respectively. By integrating Algerian expertise into the development process, the state continues to pursue its National Space Program (PSN) through 2040, firmly establishing Algeria as a leading technological power in the African space market.