Moscow, September 2024 – Russia is deepening its military-technical cooperation with the African continent, with over 40 countries currently engaged in various defense partnerships. This was revealed by Alexander Mikheev, the CEO of Rosoboronexport, the Russian state-owned defense export agency.

Expanding Military-Technical Cooperation

Speaking about Russia’s strategic focus on Africa, Mikheev emphasized the continent’s critical role in the development of military-technical ties. “Africa today is one of the main areas in the strategy for developing military-technical cooperation with foreign countries,” he stated. “More than 40 countries cooperate with us. This cooperation includes a broad range of military equipment, such as air force systems, air defense, helicopters, small arms, and electronic warfare technologies.”

Mikheev also highlighted the increasing trend of establishing joint ventures in Africa aimed at producing advanced Russian military technology locally. This approach not only strengthens Russia’s influence in the region but also helps African nations develop their own defense industries.

Key African Partners

Russia’s military partnerships in Africa are diverse, spanning across the continent. Some of the key countries involved in military-technical cooperation with Russia include:

• Algeria: A major purchaser of Russian arms, including aircraft and naval equipment.
• Egypt: Engages in extensive military collaboration, particularly in air defense and aircraft acquisitions.
• Angola: Cooperates with Russia on a range of military hardware, including armored vehicles and aviation.
• Nigeria: Focuses on acquiring Russian helicopters and other equipment for its armed forces.
• Ethiopia: Involved in deals for small arms and military vehicles.
• Sudan: Engages with Russia for air defense systems and military aircraft.
• Uganda: Receives training and equipment, including helicopters and small arms.
• South Africa: Collaborates with Russia on various military technologies, though to a lesser extent than others.

Other nations, such as Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and the Central African Republic, also maintain significant defense relationships with Russia, benefiting from arms deals and technical training.

Strategic Implications

This growing military-technical cooperation underscores Russia’s expanding influence in Africa, as it seeks to counterbalance Western powers and establish itself as a key player in the continent’s security landscape. The partnerships not only bolster the military capabilities of African nations but also contribute to Russia’s geopolitical strategy in the region.

As the demand for advanced military technology and training continues to rise across Africa, Russia’s role as a major defense partner is expected to grow even further, solidifying its presence in the continent for years to come.

For more details on this evolving military cooperation and its implications, stay tuned to PanAfrican.Email.