Nigeria, Senegal & Mali: Expanding African Air Power & Arms Imports – 2024 Update

Sub-Saharan Africa is witnessing a surge in arms imports, driven by escalating conflicts and regional instability. Recent data indicates that Nigeria, Senegal, and Mali are emerging as the largest purchasers of weaponry in the region, reflecting a complex interplay of security threats, modernization efforts, and shifting geopolitical alliances. This increased demand is reshaping the defense landscape of the continent and attracting attention from major global arms suppliers.

Nigeria Expands Air Power

Nigeria has become the largest arms importer in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 16% of the region’s total imports, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). SIPRI data reveals a significant increase in defense procurement as Nigeria confronts a multitude of security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and maritime threats. The country’s response has been to bolster its military capabilities, particularly its air force.

Approximately six months ago, the United States Department of State approved a substantial arms sale to Nigeria valued at $346 million. This package includes precision-guided bombs and rockets, with contracts awarded to Lockheed Martin, RTX, and BAE Systems. The U.S. State Department’s approval underscores the strategic importance of Nigeria in regional security and the willingness of the United States to support its counterterrorism efforts.

Beyond the United States, Nigeria has also diversified its arms sources. The Nigerian military has deployed Bayraktar TB2 drones, manufactured in Türkiye, in its counter-insurgency operations. These drones provide crucial reconnaissance and strike capabilities, enhancing the military’s ability to target insurgent groups operating in the northeast of the country.

Senegal Strengthens Defence Capabilities

Senegal ranks as the second-largest arms importer in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 8.8% of regional imports. This increase in defense spending is driven by a desire to modernize its armed forces and address the growing instability across the Sahel region. Senegal’s strategic location and its role in regional peacekeeping operations necessitate a well-equipped and capable military.

Recent acquisitions include Puma M36 armoured personnel carriers from South Africa and three offshore patrol vessels – Walo, Niani, and Cayor – designed to strengthen maritime security and protect offshore energy infrastructure. These acquisitions demonstrate Senegal’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and contributing to regional stability.

In 2025, Senegal approved a €317 million defense agreement with a Turkish supplier to improve operational readiness, according to Africa Intelligence. This agreement signifies a deepening of defense cooperation between Senegal and Türkiye. Senegal has established its first military vehicle assembly plant in Diamniadio, signaling a broader effort to build a domestic defense industry and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.

Mali Diversifies Military Suppliers

Mali has emerged as the third-largest arms importer in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for approximately 8% of the region’s imports. This increase in arms procurement is linked to the country’s evolving security situation and its shifting geopolitical alignments. Following a period of close cooperation with France, Mali has increasingly turned to Russia and China for military support.

Defense reports indicate that Mali has strengthened its defense ties with Russia, receiving Sukhoi Su-25 ground-attack jets, L-39 trainer aircraft, Mi-35M attack helicopters, and Mi-8 transport helicopters. Russia has also reportedly supplied T-72 tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and other armored systems to Mali, with a convoy of over 100 military vehicles arriving in Bamako in early 2025. The U.S. Army’s report details the suspected distribution of former Syrian military assets to Mali.

Simultaneously, Mali has expanded its cooperation with China, receiving mine-resistant armored vehicles and other ground equipment from Chinese defense manufacturer Norinco. The country has also acquired Bayraktar TB2 drones from Türkiye, and reports suggest that Mali is considering the acquisition of Akinci long-range combat drones to enhance its surveillance and strike capabilities.

Conflicts Reshape Arms Demand

The surge in arms imports across sub-Saharan Africa is closely linked to the proliferation of conflicts and instability in the region. The civil war in Sudan, which erupted in 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, has significantly impacted arms flows. During the 2021–2025 period, the RSF reportedly received artillery systems and at least one air-defense system from unidentified suppliers.

The Sudanese Armed Forces have also received drones, armored vehicles, and transport aircraft from several countries, including Belarus, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates, along with a combat aircraft from an unidentified supplier. SIPRI notes that tracking arms transfers to active conflict zones is often challenging due to the secrecy surrounding many military deals.

China Leads Suppliers to Sub-Saharan Africa

The data highlights growing competition among global powers seeking defense partnerships across Africa. SIPRI data shows that China has become the largest arms supplier to sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 22% of the region’s imports. Russia follows with 12%, while Türkiye accounts for 11%. This shift in arms supply dynamics reflects China’s growing economic and political influence in Africa, as well as its willingness to provide arms to countries that may not be able to access them from Western suppliers.

The increasing demand for arms in sub-Saharan Africa poses significant challenges to regional security and stability. While arms imports can enhance the military capabilities of individual countries, they can also exacerbate existing conflicts and contribute to a regional arms race. Addressing the root causes of conflict, promoting good governance, and strengthening regional cooperation are essential steps towards achieving lasting peace and security in the region.

Looking ahead, the trend of increasing arms imports in sub-Saharan Africa is likely to continue, driven by ongoing conflicts and the growing demand for military modernization. The role of external actors, particularly China, Russia, and Türkiye, will be crucial in shaping the future of the region’s defense landscape. Monitoring arms flows, promoting transparency, and fostering dialogue among regional stakeholders will be essential to mitigate the risks associated with this growing arms trade.