Russia Supplies Madagascar’s Junta with BMP-3s, Equipment, and Ammunition

Russia is secretly supplying weapons to Madagascar’s military junta, delivering BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles — the most powerful equipment in the island’s history — as well as man-portable air defense systems.

This is reported by Russian propaganda media outlets.

Footage released shows at least two BMP-3s, though the total number of vehicles delivered remains unknown. Additionally, Russia has supplied the junta with MANPADS, ammunition, and infantry equipment.

It is worth noting that modern Russian BMPs are the most powerful ground-based weaponry ever to be in service with the Malagasy army.

Previously, this role was filled by approximately 12 PT-76 light amphibious tanks, though their technical condition is unknown.

On February 24, it was reported that the Russian Federation had delivered a shipment of equipment and 63 tons of cargo to Madagascar, officially designated as “humanitarian aid” to address the aftermath of Cyclone Fiti.

The delivery was carried out by military transport aircraft — Il-76 and An-124 planes belonging to the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation.

Back in December, reports emerged that Russia had supported the military junta in Madagascar with weapons and sent its military personnel to the country.

As a reminder, the military coup in Madagascar took place on October 14 amid anti-government protests and the flight of then-President Andry Rajoelina to France.

Shortly after the coup, the commander of the elite CAPSAT unit, Randrianirina, assumed the presidency of the country.