Nigeria, Senegal and Mali have become the main arms importers in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting increased defense spending as governments respond to insurgency, terrorism and regional instability.

According to new data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, arms imports into sub-Saharan Africa increased by 13% between the periods 2016-2020 and 2021-2025, even as overall arms imports into Africa decreased by 41%.

Unlike traditional North African arms importers such as Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria, which often procure advanced weapons to maintain their regional military dominance, many sub-Saharan African countries are increasing their arms purchases primarily to address threats to internal security and insurgencies.

Nigeria strengthens its air power

Nigeria has become the largest arms importer in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 16% of the region's imports, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

The country has increased its defense acquisitions in the face of insurgency, banditry and threats to maritime security.

About six months ago, the U.S. State Department approved a $346 million arms sale to Nigeria, including precision-guided bombs and rockets, with contracts involving Lockheed Martin, RTX, and BAE Systems.

Nigeria is also strengthening its air power through a €1.2 billion deal with Leonardo, which includes 24 M-346FA fighter jets, 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters from the United States and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters from Italy.

The Nigerian army has also deployed Bayraktar TB2 drones from Türkiye in counter-insurgency operations.

Senegal strengthens its defense capabilities

Senegal ranks second among arms importers in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 8.8% of regional imports.

The country has increased its defense spending in order to modernize its armed forces and combat instability in the Sahel.

Recent acquisitions include Puma M36 armored personnel carriers from South Africa and three offshore patrol vessels; the Walo, the Niani and the Cayor, to enhance maritime security and protect offshore energy infrastructure.

According to Africa Intelligence, Dakar approved a €317 million defense agreement with a Turkish supplier in 2025 to improve its operational capacity.

Senegal also inaugurated its first military vehicle assembly plant in Diamniadio, as part of efforts to develop a national defense industry.

Mali is diversifying its military suppliers

Mali ranks third among arms importers in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for approximately 8% of the region's imports, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

According to defense reports, Mali has strengthened its defense ties with Russia, receiving Sukhoi Su-25 ground attack aircraft, L-39 training aircraft, Mi-35M attack helicopters and Mi-8 transport helicopters.

Russia has also supplied T-72 tanks, infantry fighting vehicles and other armored systems, and reports indicate that a convoy of more than 100 military vehicles arrived in Bamako in early 2025.

At the same time, Mali has strengthened its cooperation with China, receiving mine-resistant armored vehicles and other ground equipment from the Chinese defense manufacturer Norinco.

The country has also bolstered its air capabilities with Turkey’s Bayraktar TB2 drones, while defense reports indicate that Mali has acquired Akinci long-range combat drones to enhance surveillance and strike operations.

Conflicts are reshaping the demand for weapons

Several conflicts have influenced arms flows to Africa, notably the civil war in Sudan, which broke out in 2023 between the Sudanese armed forces and the rapid support forces.

During the period 2021-2025, Russian security forces reportedly received artillery systems and at least one air defense system from unidentified suppliers.

At the same time, the Sudanese armed forces received drones, armored vehicles and transport aircraft from several countries, including Belarus, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, as well as a fighter jet from an unidentified supplier.

SIPRI notes that tracking arms transfers to active conflict zones is often difficult because many military agreements remain secret.

China is the main supplier to sub-Saharan Africa.

This data also highlights the growing competition among global powers seeking defense partnerships across Africa.

SIPRI data shows that China has become the main arms supplier to sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 22% of the region's imports.

Russia follows with 12%, while Turkey accounts for 11%.