The Musem de l'Armee (Military Museum) in Algiers, Algeria is a significant institution dedicated to the military history of Algeria from the Numidian era through the period of colonization to the present day. Situated near the iconic Makam El Chahid (Monument of Martyrs) in the municipality of El Madania, this institution serves as a reminder of the nation's turbulent history and the resilience of its people.

Collections at the Musem de l'Armee Algiers

The museum showcases a variety of exhibits, including clothing, weapons, and unique African Art pieces that once belonged to the Algerian fighters. Among the exceptional items on display are a Napoleon III sword offered to Emir Abdelkader, the guillotine from the Serkadji prison, and personal belongings of Ali la Pointe.

Visitor Information

The museum is open every day (except Fridays) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (and until 7 p.m. in summer).

El Madania, where the museum is located, is a municipality in the Algiers Province. As of the 1998 census, it had a population of 51,404, earning it 15 seats in the PMA. Its municipal code is 1603, and its postal code is 16075.

Algerian Military Overview

The military of Algeria, the successor of the National Liberation Army that fought during the Algerian War of Independence (1954–62), comprises the People's National Army (ANP), the Algerian National Navy (MRA), and the Algerian Air Force (QJJ), in addition to the Territorial Air Defence Forces.

Military service is compulsory for men aged 19–30 for a duration of 12 months. The total military personnel include 147,000 active, 150,000 reserve, and 187,000 paramilitary staff (as per a 2008 estimate). The military expenditure accounted for 4.3% of the GDP in 2012, making Algeria home to the second-largest military in North Africa and the largest defense budget in Africa ($10 billion).

In 2007, the Algerian Air Force signed a deal with Russia to purchase 49 MiG-29SMT and 6 MiG-29UBT at an estimated cost of $1.9 billion. Russia is also constructing two 636-type diesel submarines for Algeria.

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