Niger receives hardware to combat terrorism

Egypt has donated a large amount of equipment to Nigér’s military to help it combat jihadist terror groups operating in the region. The consignment was handed over on July 7 and according to Niger’s Ministry of National Defence, included 30 BRDM-2 armoured reconnaissance vehicles, 12 122 mm M-30 howitzers, 12 mortars (possibly 82 mm Helwan M-69s), 50 AK-47 assault rifles, 300 assault rifles (apparently FN FALs), 1 900 pistols, and a significant quantity of ammunition.

Nigér is located in the Sahel region, an area that has seen immense jihadist activity in recent years with terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) repeatedly attacking the area. The hardware will strengthen Nigér’s military to improve its capabilities and provide better protection for its citizens.

Egypt has a long history of fighting terrorism, and its military has a wealth of experience in counter-insurgency operations the donation is a sign of its commitment to regional security. The donation of military hardware will help Niger’s military to deal with terrorist attacks.

During the handover ceremony at the Central Equipment Department (DCMAT) in Niamey, Nigerien Defence Minister Alkassoum Indatou noted that Egypt is also training special forces from the Nigerien army. Egyptian Ambassador Sayed Mohamed Ahmed Elsalahey said Egypt intends to improve military cooperation with Niger, including training, research and military industries.

Two years ago Nigér received assistance from Germany in the form of 15 IAG Guardian Xtreme armoured vehicles to fight against terrorism, organized crime and illegal migration. A year later the country placed an order for Ejder Yalçins armoured vehicles from Turkey’s Nurol Makina, one hundred (100) new KIA KM450 utility vehicles in addition to Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles and Hurkus turboprop trainer/light attack aircraft recently purchased.

France has donated two second-hand SA342 L1 Gazelle light attack and scout helicopters as well as seven 20 mm cannons to the Nigérien forces. This followed an earlier transfer of three Gazelle helicopters equipped with a 20 mm cannon to Nigér in March 2013.