The Algerian force structure underwent a major expansion during the 1970s as relations with neighboring Morocco deteriorated. The focus of the expansion was on aircraft and ground elements. However, relations with Morocco subsequently improved, and the main strategic focus since the early 1990s has been on combating a bloody Islamic insurgency that essentially turned into a civil war. While counterinsurgency procurement has taken place, the overall force structure is characterized by its excess diversity, and is loaded with aging Soviet-era equipment procured in earlier years that is not all that well suited for the counterinsurgency role.
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