Modern Diplomacy published on 6 May 2026 a commentary titled "Egyptian Military Bases: A Strategic Linchpin for China's Interests in the Eastern Med and Red Sea" by Nadia Helmy, Beni Suef University.
China seeks to leverage the development of Egyptian military bases as centers for Chinese military technology, especially UAVs and advanced air defense systems. By supporting Egyptian military modernization, China also weakens Cairo's military dependence on the United States.
Military Africa published on 2 July 2025 an article titled "Egypt Confirms Acquisition of Chinese HQ-9B Long-range Air Defence System" by Darek Liam.
Egypt is buying from China a long-range surface-to-air missile system designed to counter fighter jets, cruise missiles, and short-range ballistic missiles. Frustrated by Western restrictions on arms sales, Cairo is turning increasingly to China, which is positioning itself as a reliable supplier of weapons to countries in the Middle East.
Africa Equity Media published on 7 May 2025 an article titled "China Deepens Military Footprint in Africa with Landmark Nigeria Deal" by Faith Nyasuguta.
China's NORINCO signed a MOU with the Defense Industries Corporation of Nigeria to product military grade ammunition locally and service military equipment. The initiative underscores China's goal to become a key security partner with Nigeria and Africa generally.
Military Africa posted on 1 May 2025 an article titled "Nigeria Looks to China's Norinco to Bolster Fledging Air Defence Structure" by Ekene Lionel.
A high-level delegation from the Nigerian Air Force recently visited China to look at updating its radar coverage and air defense systems. Nigeria has an ongoing defense relationship with Norinco and has procured a wide variety of combat systems from China, which is looking to expand its military and economic influence in the country.
The Financial Times published on 24 April 2024 an article titled "Russian Troop Arrival Spells End for US Military Presence in Niger" by Aanu Adeoye.
Following the arrival in Niger of 100 Russian troops with its Africa Corps, the United States announced that, at the request of the Nigerien military regime, it will remove its 1,000 military and civilian personnel from an airbase in the northern part of the country. According to the article, Niger's main reason for embracing Moscow is "protecting the regime," particularly from France, which it accuses of plotting its demise. In spite of the deteriorating Niger-US relationship, Washington is trying to maintain a presence and some limited influence in the country.
