Central European defence companies are looking to expand their presence in Africa by offering weapons and equipment that can upgrade the Soviet-era systems used by many African militaries. These companies are competing with other global arms suppliers, especially Russia and China, for a share of the African arms market, which is driven by the continent’s security challenges and geopolitical interests.
According to Reuters, a Czech trade mission visited Ethiopia, Kenya, Ghana and the Ivory Coast in November 2023, with a key aim of boosting opportunities for the defence industry. The Czech delegation included representatives of major defence companies such as Czechoslovak Group (CSG), Aero Vodochody, Omnipol and Retia. The Czech national security advisor, Tomas Pojar, said that defence deals under discussion as a result of the trip were worth billions of crowns and included talks with Ethiopia about modernising its aircraft and upgrading Soviet technology.
The Czech Republic is not the only Central European country that is pursuing defence contracts in Africa. Poland’s state-owned PGZ and private WB Group have also stepped up talks with potential African customers over the last 12 months, according to their executives. Poland and the Czech Republic are also cooperating with each other and with other NATO allies in providing military assistance to some African countries, such as Latvia and Slovakia.
The Central European defence companies have an advantage over their competitors in that they can offer products and services that are compatible with the existing Soviet-style equipment used by many African militaries, but also incorporate Western technology and standards. This makes them attractive alternatives to Russian or Chinese suppliers, who may face reliability or political issues. Moreover, the Central European defence companies can leverage their historical ties and cultural affinity with some African countries, as well as their participation in international formats such as NATO, the European Union and the Visegrad Group.
The African arms market is a diverse and dynamic one, with different countries having different needs and preferences. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russia overtook China as the leading arms seller in sub-Saharan Africa with a market share rising to 26% over the past five years from 2018 to 2022. However, there are also other arms-exporting states that are competing for influence in sub-Saharan Africa, such as France, Germany, Turkey and the United States. The Central European defence companies are well-positioned to join this competition and offer their products and services to African customers who are looking for quality, affordability and reliability.
The Central European defence industry’s interest in Africa reflects the growing importance of the continent for global security and development. Africa faces many challenges, such as terrorism, civil wars, poverty and climate change, but also offers many opportunities, such as natural resources, markets and partnerships. By engaging with Africa, the Central European defence companies can contribute to the continent’s peace and stability, as well as to their own economic growth and strategic interests.
Source: Reuters
