Burkina Faso Receives New 4x4 CS/VP14 and VP11 MRAP Vehicles from China.

In June 2024, the armed forces of Burkina Faso significantly enhanced their military capabilities with the receipt of new defensive equipment from China. This latest shipment includes an array of MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) armored vehicles, specifically the all-terrain light armored Norinco VP11 and CS/VP14 models, alongside Caterpillar excavators. These vehicles, designed for troop transport, also offer capabilities for medical evacuation, providing critical support in the face of persistent terrorist threats.
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 China 4x4 CS/VP14 and VP11 MRAP Vehicles (Picture source: Burkina Faso MoD)

President Captain Ibrahim Traoré officially received this order on June 6, which notably includes all-terrain light armored vehicles, the Norinco VP11 and CS/VP14, as well as Caterpillar excavators. These vehicles are specifically designed for troop transport and the possibility of medical evacuation if needed.

The Norinco VP11 is an MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicle designed to offer effective protection against explosions and ambushes. Weighing 12 tons, it can transport a team of 12 people. It reaches a maximum speed of 120 km/h and has a range of 800 km. With dimensions of 5300 mm in length, 2500 mm in width, and 2400 mm in height, the VP11 offers excellent off-road mobility thanks to its all-wheel drive and can navigate slopes up to 60% and water trenches up to 0.8 meters. It is designed to operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -25°C to 50°C.

The CS/VP14 is a recently developed high-mobility MRAP. This 4x4 is designed to offer advanced protection against grenades and mines, meeting NATO protection standards STANAG 4569-4a. It can withstand the explosion of a 10 kg anti-tank mine under any wheel and resist 7.62×51 mm ammunition fired from 30 meters. The CS/VP14 is equipped with a Cummins ISDe285 30 engine delivering 210 KW, allowing it to climb slopes up to 60° and reach a maximum speed of 120 km/h. Its dimensions are 6600 mm in length, 2600 mm in width, and 2650 mm in height, with a total combat weight of 9000 kg.

These vehicles complement an already well-equipped arsenal. In January, the army also received Dongfeng CS/SM1 4×4 mortar carriers, Norinco WZ551 6×6 wheeled armored combat vehicles in command post version, and WMA301 tank destroyers.

Brigadier General Coulibaly confirmed that these acquisitions are only the beginning, with four more batches of equipment expected, emphasizing Burkina Faso's ongoing commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities to address an increasingly unstable security environment.

The military collaboration between China and Burkina Faso is part of a broader dynamic of strengthening ties between China and African countries, where it seeks to extend its influence through significant investments in infrastructure and defense. This strategic partnership enables Burkina Faso to improve its defense capabilities and respond more effectively to internal security threats, particularly terrorist attacks destabilizing the region.

For China, the objective is twofold: to strengthen its presence in Africa as a reliable partner in the defense sector and to expand its export market for military equipment. In doing so, China consolidates its strategic alliances and increases its geopolitical influence on the African continent while supporting its own defense industries.

The provided vehicles, such as the Norinco VP11 and CS/VP14, are particularly suited to the needs of the Burkinabé armed forces. Their MRAP design makes them ideal for operations in environments where the risks of mine attacks and ambushes are high. These vehicles offer increased mobility on varied and difficult terrains, essential for anti-terrorist operations. Moreover, their ability to transport troops and carry out medical evacuations quickly and safely is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and the responsiveness of the forces in a context of guerrilla warfare and sporadic attacks.