• Algeria places Alsat-3B into orbit two weeks after launching Alsat-3A

• Satellite boosts high-resolution imaging for mapping, resources, and risk management

• Move supports digital sovereignty and national space capabilities

Algeria has placed the Alsat-3B satellite into orbit, just two weeks after the launch of Alsat-3A, marking a new step in the expansion of its national space program. The launch took place on Saturday, January 31, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. It was supervised from Algiers by Army General Saïd Chanegriha, Minister Delegate to the Minister of National Defense and Chief of Staff of the National People’s Army, via the country’s remote sensing ground station.

“I personally congratulate the executives and staff of the Algerian Space Agency, as well as the services of the National People’s Army, on the successful completion of these projects. I urge them to build on the knowledge and experience gained to fully master these satellites and continue developing space technologies in Algeria,” Chanegriha said.

Developed through cooperation between the Algerian Space Agency (ASAL) and China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, Alsat-3B strengthens the national satellite constellation, which already includes Alsat-1B, 1N, 2A, 2B, and 3A. The satellite delivers high-resolution imagery used for national mapping, digital elevation models, and a range of strategic applications, including natural resource management, disaster prevention, and environmental monitoring.

The launch also supports Algeria’s digital and strategic sovereignty by reducing reliance on foreign data and strengthening state autonomy in geospatial intelligence. The Alsat-3 program is part of the National Space Program, which aims to develop space activities in a structured, peaceful, and sustainable manner while building domestic capabilities in geointelligence and satellite communications.

At the continental level, Africa’s space economy is projected to reach $22.64 billion by 2026, according to Space in Africa. This growth reflects the need to address structural challenges such as food insecurity, climate change, infrastructure gaps, and disaster management. Space technologies, including Earth observation, satellite communications, and navigation systems, offer scalable and cost-effective solutions to improve agricultural productivity, infrastructure planning, and risk prevention.

Beyond technical applications, the Alsat-3 program is also designed to strengthen local skills. The active involvement of the National People’s Army and ASAL in operating and managing the satellites helps train a specialized workforce capable of supporting the country’s emerging space industry and exporting high-value services across the continent.

The expanded satellite constellation also opens new prospects for stronger regional cooperation, enabling African countries to better use geospatial data for food security, resource management, and territorial planning. Through this program, Algeria is reinforcing its position among Africa’s leading space actors, alongside Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa, by combining domestic expertise, technological control, and international partnerships.

Samira Njoya