Arms deliveries and Africa Corps training: How Russia is bolstering its presence in Madagascar
Summary
Russia has increased its military presence and influence in Madagascar since a coup in October 2025. This includes delivering weapons and vehicles, as well as Russian-led training for Madagascar’s army.Key Facts
- In April 2026, Russia delivered infantry fighting vehicles, protective gear, and small arms to Madagascar.
- The handover ceremony was attended by Madagascar’s transitional president, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina.
- The coup in Madagascar occurred in October 2025 after protests led to the former president being ousted.
- In December 2025, a Russian Ministry of Defence aircraft landed in Madagascar with a 40-person Russian delegation.
- The equipment delivered includes kamikaze drones, handguns, Kalashnikov rifles, and a Russian-made Boomerang drone.
- The Russian delegation is linked to Andrei Averyanov, deputy head of Russian military intelligence and leader of the Africa Corps.
- Russian personnel began training Madagascar’s military on using the new equipment in January 2026.
- Some Malagasy officials and civil society members have raised concerns about Russia’s growing influence.
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