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Ghana Modernizes Its Armed Forces By Acquiring VN-22 Armored Vehicles From China.
The Ghanaian Armed Forces have strengthened their combat capabilities with the recent acquisition of VN-22 armored vehicles from China, as reported by Military Africa. At least 20 units arrived at the port of Tema on October 26, 2024, marking an enhancement of the country's defense capabilities. The newly acquired vehicles are equipped with 30 mm autocannons, providing increased firepower for various combat scenarios.
The VN-22 is a modern armored fighting vehicle developed and produced by the Chinese defense company Norinco. (Picture source: Norinco)
The VN-22 is a family of 6x6 wheeled armored vehicles developed by the Chinese defense manufacturer Norinco, primarily aimed at the export market. The platform was first unveiled at the 13th China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in 2021, where its modular design and ability to adapt to different combat roles garnered attention.
The modular configuration of the VN-22 allows for various turret options, accommodating different weapon systems to meet specific operational requirements. The vehicle family includes variants designed for armored personnel carrier (APC) and infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) roles, with both manned and unmanned turret configurations. Armament options range from machine guns to more powerful 30 mm cannons, as seen with the Ghanaian vehicles, offering flexibility depending on the mission.
Designed for enhanced protection, the VN-22 features additional armor plating covering most of its structure, enabling it to withstand armor-piercing rounds up to 14.5 mm caliber, equivalent to NATO STANAG 4569 Level 4 protection, from all directions. The vehicle also incorporates a V-shaped hull to mitigate the effects of landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), providing additional safety for its occupants.
The acquisition of the VN-22 is part of a broader regional trend, with countries such as Ivory Coast, Senegal, and more recently Burkina Faso incorporating the vehicle into their military inventories. A recent video on social media showed a delivery of these vehicles to Burkina Faso. This purchase will significantly improve the Ghanaian Army's mobility, firepower, and survivability in various operational environments, marking an advance in the modernization of its armored vehicle fleet.
The VN-22 is a modern armored fighting vehicle developed and produced by the Chinese defense company Norinco. Entering production in 2021, it has been in service since 2023 and offers a versatile and robust solution for military forces requiring a highly adaptable combat platform. The VN-22 is a 6x6 wheeled armored vehicle designed to fulfill multiple battlefield roles, with a modular design allowing for different configurations and weapon systems.
The vehicle can accommodate a crew of three while providing space for up to eight passengers, making it suitable for transporting troops under armored protection. It features a protection level that meets STANAG 4569 Level 4 standards, meaning it can withstand hits from armor-piercing rounds up to 14.5 mm caliber, offering substantial security against direct fire and explosive threats.
The VN-22’s primary armament consists of a 30 mm autocannon, effective against infantry, light armored vehicles, and low-flying aircraft. Additionally, the VN22B variant is equipped with a 105 mm cannon, providing increased firepower for engaging heavier targets. The vehicle also includes secondary armament options, such as two HJ-12 anti-tank guided missiles, a QJC-88 12.7 mm heavy machine gun, and a Type 86 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun on the VN22B variant, enhancing its versatility on the battlefield.
The arrival of these vehicles underscores Ghana's commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities in the face of evolving security challenges. As regional military dynamics continue to shift, the deployment of the VN-22 will provide the Ghanaian Armed Forces with a versatile and robust platform to address both conventional and asymmetric threats.