Burkina Faso’s National Armed Forces Expand Capabilities with Chinese Equipment Delivery

On October 10, 2025, the National Armed Forces (FAN) of Burkina Faso officially augmented their military arsenal through the acquisition of new Chinese-made equipment. This acquisition underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to modernize military capabilities in response to evolving security challenges in the region.

Equipment Overview

The delivery, announced by President Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s office, included a range of advanced weaponry designed for rapid response and combat support. The primary units receiving this equipment were:

• Rapid Intervention Field Artillery Battalion (BACIR)
• Rapid Intervention Armoured Battalion (BBIR)

Inventory Details

The following key assets were handed over to the FAN:

• VN22B 105 mm Fire-Support Vehicles: Six units delivered
• SR5 Multiple Rocket Launchers: Four units accompanied by two ammunition resupply vehicles
• SM6 120 mm Self-Propelled Mortars: Six units
• WZ551 Command Vehicles: Two units based on the WZ551 platform

Additionally, there is speculation regarding further acquisitions, which may include:

• SH1 122 mm Self-Propelled Howitzers: Approximately 14 units
• Towed Howitzers: At least 16 units, likely second-hand Soviet 122 mm M-30s or the Chinese Type 54 variant
• Logistical Support: At least 10 Shaanxi trucks to facilitate transportation
• 4×4 Tactical Vehicles: Six smaller units

Photographic documentation initially available on social media platforms displayed these older howitzers; however, images were later removed from the presidential office’s social media accounts.

New Camouflage Patterns

Notably, the VN22Bs and SR5s are painted in an unrecognized camouflage pattern, distinctive from existing FAN designs. This pattern has been observed in social media posts dating back to early August, depicting similar vehicles at a port identified as Tema in Ghana, known for handling Burkinabe imports.

Structural Reorganization

The BACIR and BBIR are integral components of the newly formed Special Rapid Intervention Brigade (BSIR), established under a presidential decree in January 2024. Additional elements outlined in the decree include:

• Special Forces Group (GFS)
• Republican Guard (GR)
• Support and Services Command Group (GCAS)
• Rapid Intervention Air Squadron (EAIR)
• Training and Development Centre

This strategic realignment aims to enhance the operational effectiveness of the FAN amid a heightened security landscape.

Strategic Implications

The procurement of advanced military hardware from China signifies a pronounced shift in Burkina Faso’s defense strategy, reflecting a commitment to bolster national security in the face of emerging threats. This development is likely to influence regional dynamics, particularly concerning allied nations’ military preparedness and response capabilities.

As Burkina Faso continues to navigate its complex security environment, the successful integration of these new assets will be a crucial factor in determining the effectiveness of its military operations. The advancements in artillery and armored units specifically suggest an intention to enhance immediate response capabilities to insurgent threats, a growing concern within the Sahel region.