General Ssaïd Chengriha: The Sentinel of Algeria’s Military Power

In the vast expanse of North Africa, where geopolitical currents shift with increasing velocity, Algeria holds a commanding presence. Ranked as the second most powerful military on the African continent and 26th globally in the 2024 Global Firepower Index, Algeria’s defence posture is formidable. At the helm of this strategic military machine is General Saïd Chengriha, the Chief of Staff of the People’s National Army (ANP)—a seasoned commander whose leadership reflects both continuity and transformation in Algeria’s defence doctrine.

Guardian of a Strategic Nation

Algeria’s unique geography—spanning over 2.3 million square kilometres—and its role as a major energy exporter require a military that is agile, expansive, and deeply rooted in national sovereignty. General Chengriha’s tenure comes at a critical juncture, as Algeria navigates complex security concerns from the Sahel to the Mediterranean, and internal efforts to modernise its forces while preserving its independence in global defence partnerships.

From Battlefield Veteran to Military Commander

Born in 1945 in El Bayadh Province, General Chengriha’s career reflects the arc of Algeria’s modern military history. A graduate of the prestigious Soviet military academies, he rose through the ranks with a strong grounding in armoured warfare, having played a key role in Algeria’s past regional engagements and domestic security efforts.

Before his appointment as Chief of Staff in 2019, Chengriha served as the commander of Algeria’s Ground Forces—a pivotal position that shaped his tactical acuity and deepened his reputation as a disciplined, loyal officer within the army’s upper echelons.

Architect of Military Modernisation

Since taking the reins, Chengriha has overseen significant strides in Algeria’s military capacity. The ANP boasts a diverse and robust arsenal: modern fighter jets including Su-30MKAs, Russian-made T-90 tanks, advanced air defence systems, and a naval fleet that continues to expand with the addition of submarines and corvettes.

Under his watch, Algeria has reinforced its self-reliant defence industry, investing in domestic production capabilities while maintaining strong procurement ties with Russia, China, and European defence firms. This multipolar sourcing strategy ensures strategic autonomy—a principle Chengriha upholds fiercely.

Strategic Readiness and Border Defence

Algeria’s regional environment is marked by instability—from the persistent volatility in neighbouring Libya and Mali to the growing threats of terrorism and arms trafficking in the Sahel. Chengriha has recalibrated Algeria’s defence strategy to prioritise border security, rapid deployment readiness, and cyber defence.

He has bolstered surveillance capabilities along the southern and eastern frontiers and improved joint force operations between the army, air force, and gendarmerie. The ANP’s consistent high-ranking performance in international indexes is a testament to this integrated approach.

Champion of Non-Alignment and Defence Sovereignty

Unlike many African militaries reliant on Western training or funding, Algeria under Chengriha has maintained a policy of non-alignment, choosing strategic partnerships over alliances. He has reiterated Algeria’s commitment to non-intervention and its preference for African-led conflict resolution mechanisms.

Still, the country continues to engage in joint military exercises with regional and international partners, projecting both strength and a readiness to cooperate on common security concerns.

General Saïd Chengriha stands as a commanding fusion of time-honoured military tradition and contemporary strategic foresight. Under his watch, Algeria’s People’s National Army (ANP) has sharpened its edge—not just as a shield for the nation’s territorial sovereignty, but as a steady force in an increasingly volatile region.

Unassuming in the public eye, yet deeply consequential behind the scenes, Chengriha’s impact reverberates through Algeria’s defence posture and its rising prominence on the African military stage. His doctrine, rooted in readiness, deterrence, and non-alignment, has fortified the ANP as a force defined not merely by scale, but by intent and capability.

As the security architecture of the continent shifts—and as external actors seek new footholds across Africa—General Chengriha’s leadership affirms Algeria’s sovereign course in defence matters. He exemplifies the principle that true military strength lies not in spectacle, but in disciplined resolve.