Gabon bolsters military arsenal with Mi-35 helicopters and new frigates

Facing evolving security threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the need to bolster national sovereignty, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has unveiled a major modernisation programme for the defence and security forces. Key measures include the acquisition of Mi-35 attack helicopters and new frigates designed to enhance Gabon’s operational capabilities across land, sea, and air.

In his State of the Nation address, the head of state reviewed the progress made since the start of the Transition in strengthening the country’s security apparatus. He noted that defence and security force numbers have been increased, while new vehicles, specialised equipment, forward operating bases, police stations, and barracks have been built or renovated nationwide. These investments reflect the authorities’ commitment to providing Gabon with a more modern defence system capable of meeting emerging security challenges.

The Gulf of Guinea at the heart of concerns

One of the major announcements involves the order of Mi-35 attack helicopters and frigates to boost the country’s surveillance and intervention capabilities. According to the executive, these acquisitions address the rise of asymmetric threats, particularly maritime piracy that continues to plague the Gulf of Guinea, one of Africa’s key commercial shipping lanes.

Beyond countering piracy, these platforms are also intended to combat illegal resource exploitation, cross-border crime, and certain forms of organised banditry that threaten national stability.

A new doctrine of sovereignty

This buildup of military capabilities is part of a broader sovereignty vision promoted by the president. In a regional context marked by geopolitical shifts and growing security challenges, Libreville aims to strengthen its ability to protect its land, maritime, and air borders.

The head of state also announced that a military programming law for 2026-2030 is currently under review. This legislation is intended to plan the investments needed to modernise the Gabonese armed forces and enhance their operational capabilities. A similar process is also planned for the security forces.

Security and development, one and the same struggle

For Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, security is now a prerequisite for economic development. Strengthening the security network, modernising equipment, and improving force mobility aim to create a more favourable environment for investment and population protection. “My ambition is to make Defence and Security a permanent lever of stability, sovereignty, and development for our country,” the head of state told Congress.

Through these announcements, Gabon reaffirms its determination to modernise its defence apparatus and adapt to an increasingly complex security environment. This ambitious project will be closely watched in the coming years as initial results emerge.