Côte d'Ivoire Armed Forces Unveil New Chinese Armored Vehicles at Independence Day Parade.

Côte d'Ivoire's (Ivory Coast) Armed Forces marked the nation's Independence Day on August 7, 2024, with a grand military parade showcasing the latest additions to their military arsenal. Among the highlights were newly acquired combat armored vehicles from China, signaling a significant enhancement in the nation's defense capabilities. The Chinese-made new combat vehicles include the VN-22B 105mm 6x6 fire support armored vehicle, the VP11 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, the CS/SS4 4x4 852 self-propelled mortar carrier vehicle, and the Dongfeng Mengshi EQ2050F 4x4 tactical vehicle. In this article, the Army Recognition editorial team provides a detailed analysis to explain the combat capabilities of each vehicle.
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The Chinese-made VN22B 105mm fire support vehicle is the most powerful combat vehicle in service with the Côte d'Ivoire Armed Forces.  (Picture source: Côte d'Ivoire Government)

VN-22B 105mm 6x6 Fire Support Armored Vehicle

The VN-22B 105mm 6x6 is a fire support armored vehicle based on the NORINCO VN2 platform designed to deliver powerful direct fire support to infantry units. Its primary armament is a 105mm high-velocity cannon, which can fire a variety of ammunition types, including high-explosive (HE) rounds, high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds, and armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds. This diverse ammunition capability allows the VN-22B to engage a wide range of targets, from infantry and fortified positions to enemy armored vehicles.

The second armament of the VN-22B includes one coaxial 7.62mm machine gun for engaging infantry and light vehicles. This secondary weapon provides additional firepower and defensive capability, particularly useful in close-quarters combat situations. The vehicle may also feature smoke grenade launchers, enhancing its survivability by providing obscuration and enabling tactical maneuvers under fire.

VP11 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicle

The VP11 is a family of mine-protected patrol vehicles produced by China North Industries (Norinco). These four-wheeled vehicles are specifically designed with a one-piece armored V-shaped hull, which effectively directs the explosive force of enemy mines outward, away from the vehicle's occupants, thereby enhancing crew survivability. One variant of the VP11 family serves as an armored personnel carrier (APC), capable of transporting seven soldiers in addition to the vehicle's driver and commander/gunner.

In some configurations, the VP11 may also be fitted with a remote weapon station (RWS), which allows the crew to operate the machine gun or other weapon systems from within the armored vehicle's safety. This RWS can be outfitted with additional weaponry, such as a 7.62mm machine gun or an automatic grenade launcher, further enhancing the vehicle's defensive capabilities against a variety of threats.

CS/SS4 4x4 82mm Self-Propelled Mortar Carrier Vehicle

The CS/SS4 4x4 82mm self-propelled mortar carrier vehicle, based on the CS/VN3 platform, is armed with an 82mm mortar system, providing mobile indirect fire support. This mortar system is capable of firing a variety of rounds, including high-explosive (HE), smoke, and illumination rounds, with a range that allows it to engage targets several kilometers away. The mortar’s high rate of fire and quick deployment capability make it ideal for suppressing enemy positions, supporting infantry assaults, and providing immediate responsive fire.

The CS/SS4 can carry a significant amount of ammunition onboard, ensuring sustained fire support during prolonged engagements. In addition to the mortar, the vehicle may also be equipped with a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun mounted on the roof for self-defense and to engage close-range threats. The machine gun complements the mortar by providing a means to defend against infantry and light vehicles that might attempt to close in on the vehicle.

Dongfeng Mengshi EQ2050F 4x4 Tactical Vehicle

The Dongfeng Mengshi EQ2050F 4x4 tactical vehicle, based on the Dongfeng EQ2050 platform, is highly versatile and can be configured with a wide range of armaments depending on the mission requirements. Standard armament options include a 12.7mm heavy machine gun or a 7.62mm machine gun mounted on a rotating turret or ring mount. This setup allows the vehicle to provide suppressive fire, defend against infantry attacks, and engage light armored vehicles.

For more specialized roles, the EQ2050F can be armed with an automatic grenade launcher (AGL), which offers a high rate of fire and the ability to engage targets with explosive rounds at longer distances. In some configurations, the vehicle may also carry anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), significantly enhancing its capability to take on enemy armor. The Mengshi EQ2050F’s flexibility in armament options allows it to adapt to a wide variety of combat roles, from reconnaissance to direct combat engagements, making it an essential asset for tactical operations.

VN2 APC Armored Personnel Carrier vehicle

The VN2 APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) is the export variant of the Chinese WZ551 armored personnel carrier, developed by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO). As an amphibious, 6x6 wheeled vehicle, the VN2APC is designed for versatility and mobility, capable of operating effectively in various terrains and environments. It is equipped with a turret-mounted 12.7mm heavy machine gun for engaging light armored vehicles and infantry, with options to integrate additional weaponry such as a 30mm automatic cannon or anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs). The vehicle can carry up to 12 personnel, including the driver, gunner, and commander, providing them with protection against small arms fire, shell splinters, and landmine explosions.

The VN2 APC is based on the proven WZ551 platform, which has seen extensive use in the Chinese military and has been exported to numerous countries. The vehicle’s amphibious capability allows it to cross water obstacles without additional preparation, making it highly suitable for operations in regions with rivers and lakes. The VN2’s modular design also allows for various configurations, including command vehicles, ambulances, and reconnaissance variants, depending on the mission requirements.

Côte d'Ivoire and China have developed a strong political and defense relationship marked by increasing cooperation in various sectors. Politically, the two nations have deepened their ties through diplomatic engagements, trade agreements, and mutual support in international forums. In terms of defense, China has become a key partner for Côte d'Ivoire, providing military training, equipment, and technology. This collaboration is exemplified by Côte d'Ivoire's acquisition of advanced Chinese combat armored vehicles, reflecting China's role in helping to modernize and enhance the capabilities of the Ivorian Armed Forces. The relationship is characterized by mutual benefits, with China gaining influence in West Africa and Côte d'Ivoire strengthening its defense infrastructure.