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Strategic Impact of VN-22 Armored Vehicles on China's Influence in Africa.
With over $2 billion in annual arms sales to Africa, China has solidified its position as a leading supplier of military hardware on the continent. Among the most prominent pieces of equipment in recent years are the VN-22 armored vehicles, developed by Norinco. These versatile machines have become a cornerstone of China’s strategy to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties with African nations, while simultaneously addressing the continent’s pressing security needs. This growing military partnership reflects a broader effort by Beijing to expand its strategic presence in Africa, filling gaps left by other global powers.
Côte d’Ivoire adopted the VN-22B variant in January 2024 for enhanced fire support, following Senegal’s lead, which had embraced the vehicle for similar purposes in 2023 (Picture source: FACI)
In recent years, several African nations have integrated the VN-22 into their arsenals, signaling their increasing reliance on Chinese defense technology. Burkina Faso, for instance, received around 20 VN-22s in October 2024 to enhance its armed forces’ counter-terrorism capabilities in regions plagued by insurgencies. Ghana, in the same period, acquired a similar fleet as part of a broader effort to modernize its military. Côte d’Ivoire adopted the VN-22B variant in January 2024 for enhanced fire support, following Senegal’s lead, which had embraced the vehicle for similar purposes in 2023. These acquisitions underscore the VN-22’s appeal as a flexible and cost-effective solution for diverse operational needs.
The VN-22 stands out for its modular design, allowing it to perform various roles such as troop transport, combat support, and firepower projection. As a 6x6 armored vehicle, its standard version comes equipped with a remotely operated turret featuring a 30 mm automatic cannon and two HJ-12 anti-tank missiles mounted on a retractable launcher. This configuration offers robust firepower capable of engaging armored targets or fortified positions. The vehicle also incorporates the GL6 active protection system, inspired by the Israeli Iron Fist, to defend against ballistic threats and anti-tank projectiles.
A more advanced variant, the VN-22B, is tailored for heavy fire support operations. It features a 105 mm cannon compatible with NATO-standard ammunition, making it effective against heavily armored targets and fortified structures. The VN-22B also boasts enhanced armor meeting STANAG 4569 Level 4 standards, providing protection against 14.5 mm armor-piercing rounds. Additionally, its V-shaped hull is designed to mitigate the impact of mines and improvised explosive devices, ensuring higher survivability for the crew and passengers. These attributes make the VN-22 family particularly suited to the operational challenges faced by African militaries.
The growing reliance of African nations on Chinese military equipment is driven by several factors. The VN-22 is competitively priced, offers flexible financing arrangements, and comes with fewer restrictions compared to Western suppliers, who often attach conditions related to governance and human rights. These terms make Chinese arms accessible to countries grappling with urgent security challenges, such as terrorism and internal unrest.
In practice, VN-22 vehicles are being deployed for a range of missions, from counter-terrorism operations in unstable regions to maintaining internal security. In Burkina Faso, for example, the VN-22 supports efforts to combat insurgent groups in remote and difficult terrains. In Côte d’Ivoire, the VN-22B enhances the firepower of combat units tasked with protecting strategic locations. Meanwhile, countries like Ghana and Senegal use these vehicles to modernize their defense capabilities and reinforce regional security.
While China’s expanding defense partnerships in Africa offer clear benefits to recipient nations, they also raise questions about long-term dependencies. Critics have highlighted the potential risks of over-reliance on Chinese arms and the implications for sovereignty and debt. Nevertheless, the VN-22 deliveries illustrate Beijing’s growing role as a strategic partner in Africa, reshaping the continent’s defense landscape and shifting global power dynamics.
As security challenges persist across Africa, the VN-22 serves as a symbol of how China is adapting its defense exports to meet the demands of African militaries. Beyond its tactical benefits, the VN-22 reflects a deeper shift in Africa’s geopolitical alignment, positioning China as a key player in the region’s future security architecture.