10 African countries with the largest French military hardware imports

Over the years, African nations have sought to strengthen their defense capabilities by investing in military hardware and providing physical training for their armed forces.

The source of these military hardware often depend on diplomatic relations and international agreements.

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reports that between 2018 and 2022, Russia, the United States, China, and France were the leading suppliers of military equipment to Africa, accounting for 40%, 16%, 9.8%, and 7.6% of sales, respectively.

Many African countries have turned to France for weapons supplies and upgrades, particularly within the Francophone belt, where France was historically a key supplier of arms and military support.

However, recent tensions and fallout between France and some of these nations have led to a shift in dynamics. Despite this, France's role in global arms exports remains significant.

France military exports (2013-2022)

The 2023 Report to Parliament on France's Arms Exports records military hardware exports over a decade, from 2013 to 2022.

France's defense exports reached a historic high of nearly €27 billion in just 2022.

According to French Minister for the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu, this success can be attributed to the excellence of French manufacturers and the efforts of "Team France" in building strong relationships with partners and customers worldwide.

Since 2013, France has supplied military technology and equipment worth €67.9 billion across various regions, with the Middle East being the largest buyer, accounting for €27.9 billion of the total during the period in review.

European countries followed with €9.57 billion, while South Asian countries purchased €12.8 billion in military hardware.

Africa, including both Sub-Saharan and North African nations, received €2.81 billion in military supplies from France.

France's relationship with Africa

France's military supply to Africa has been driven by strategic ties, particularly in West and North Africa, through historical military cooperation, arms exports, and training programs.

France has supported the region with advanced military equipment and expertise, especially for counterterrorism and peacekeeping.

While Africa is a smaller market than the Middle East and South Asia, it remains important for France's arms exports.

The Sahel region, central to France's counterterrorism efforts like Barkhane, has seen significant military supplies, including aircraft, armored vehicles, and surveillance equipment.

However, rising anti-French sentiment and shifting geopolitical dynamics have led several African countries to expel or reduce France's military presence.

Also, increased competition from Russia and China and criticism of foreign military influence have further impacted the scope of France's military exports

The table below outlines the top 10 African nations that were the largest buyers of French military hardware between 2013 and 2022.

Morocco leads with €1.1 billion, reflecting its strong defense partnership with France.

Algeria follows with €522 million, focusing on enhancing its military capabilities. Botswana, at €283 million, invests in its defense amid regional security concerns.

Tanzania (€115 million) and Senegal (€110 million) also prioritize military development, with Senegal's spending likely linked to peacekeeping roles.

Overall, the table highlights France's significant role in supplying military hardware to these African nations, with varying levels of investment based on each country's defense needs.