Despite its relatively modest economic ties to Africa compared to China or Western powers, Russia has emerged as a key military partner across the continent. Over the years, it has built a robust presence through arms sales and defence agreements, making it one of the largest arms suppliers to African nations.
Analysts note that “despite its relatively limited economic interests, Russia wields unexpectedly strong political influence on the continent.” This influence has been reinforced through numerous bilateral military cooperation agreements, which, in some cases, have “been a precursor to the deployment of Wagner troops in an African partner country.”
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According to the Grey Zone Report, “Russian arms exports to African countries have increased to far outweigh other major arms suppliers,” reflecting deepening defence ties and long-standing strategic interests. These partnerships, often grounded in Cold War-era alliances, have been maintained and expanded through continued military support and security assistance.
Between 2000 and 2021, several African nations imported substantial volumes of Russian arms, reflecting dependencies shaped by evolving geopolitical realities. “The range of military and political services Russia provides to its allies may be viewed as part of this power projection arsenal,” the Grey Zone Report stated.
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However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has had consequences. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russian arms shipments dropped by half between 2019 and 2023, compared to the previous five-year period.
According to data from the Grey Report, here are the top 10 African countries with the highest Russian arms purchases
1. Algeria – 12,333 units
Algeria is Russia’s largest arms client in Africa. The country’s strong military ties with Moscow date back to the Cold War era. Algeria continues to rely on Russia for advanced military hardware, including aircraft, tanks, and air defence systems.
2. Egypt – 4,823 units
Egypt has steadily increased its arms purchases from Russia in recent years. While historically aligned with the United States, Egypt has diversified its suppliers, with Russian arms forming a significant part of its military inventory.
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3. Sudan – 989 units
Sudan’s military relationship with Russia has grown over the years, particularly during periods of internal conflict and political unrest. The country has sourced various weapons systems from Russia to strengthen its military capacity.
4. Angola – 652 units
Angola has a long-standing defence relationship with Russia, going back to the time of its civil war. Russian arms imports remain an important aspect of the country’s security and defence strategy.
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5. Uganda – 642 units
Uganda has made significant arms purchases from Russia, acquiring equipment to support its military operations both domestically and in regional missions.
6. Ethiopia – 615 units
Ethiopia has relied on Russia for military support over the years. The purchases include aircraft and armoured vehicles, which have been used in different military engagements within the region.
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7. Nigeria – 314 units
Nigeria has turned to Russia for weapons to aid in its fight against terrorism and internal security challenges. Recent deals have included the supply of aircraft and military training equipment.
8. Morocco – 156 units
Though traditionally closer to Western arms suppliers, Morocco has engaged with Russia to diversify its defence procurement strategy, acquiring selected military systems.
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9. Eritrea – 130 units
Eritrea’s imports of Russian weapons reflect its effort to maintain a capable defence force. The purchases have included small arms and military vehicles.
10. Libya – 90 units
Despite ongoing conflict, Libya has received Russian arms over the years, mainly during periods of strong bilateral ties before the collapse of its central government.
