In a significant development, Burkina Faso has taken steps to bolster its defense capabilities by acquiring advanced military equipment from the renowned Chinese defense company Norinco. The official delivery ceremony, attended by President Captain Ibrahim Traoré on January 12, revealed the acquisition of a fleet of WMA301 105 mm fire-support vehicles and Norinco CS/SM1 81 mm self-propelled mortars.
The president, showcased in a video released by the president’s office, inspected six WMA301 fire-support vehicles, accompanied by a command vehicle. Notably, the consignment also included eight Norinco CS/SM1 self-propelled mortars, a type of weaponry not seen before in Africa. These mortars, utilizing Dongfeng light tactical vehicles, are expected to enhance Burkina Faso’s military mobility and firepower.
This acquisition is part of Burkina Faso's broader strategic equipment plan, unveiled by President Traoré on December 31, 2023. The country is set to receive a total of five consignments in the coming months, showcasing a commitment to modernizing its armed forces. While specific details of the plan were not disclosed during President Traoré's televised speech, he emphasized the formation of the Special Rapid Intervention Brigade. This elite unit aims to consolidate rapid intervention battalions and a special forces group, with the primary goal of reclaiming territory from militant groups.
The preference for Chinese defense technology reflects a growing trend among African nations seeking reliable and cost-effective solutions to strengthen their defense capabilities. The WMA301, an export product by NORINCO, serves as an alternative to the domestic PTL02 fire-support vehicles and has seen service in various African countries. With its quick-response capabilities and mobility, the WMA301 is a valuable addition to Burkina Faso's military inventory.
The design of the WMA301 assault gun traces back to the late-1980s, originating from prototypes when the People’s Liberation Army Ground Force was developing low-recoil 105 mm guns for fire-support vehicle platforms. The CS/SM1, also an export product by NORINCO, serves as an alternative to the domestic PCP001 81-mm self-propelled rapid-deployment mortar. By installing the Type 99 (W99) 81.2 mm high-speed mortar on the fast, highly mobile chassis 4×4, the CS/SM1 offers excellent lethality and mobility in fast attacking operations.
Burkina Faso's commitment to military modernization is further emphasized by the establishment of the Special Rapid Intervention Brigade, highlighting the nation's dedication to addressing prevalent security challenges in the region. As the country welcomes these advanced military assets, the world observes with interest, recognizing the delicate balance of power and the evolving dynamics of defense strategies in Burkina Faso.
Burkina Faso's military modernization efforts, marked by the acquisition of the WMA301 fire-support vehicles and CS/SM1 self-propelled mortars, signify a pivotal moment in the nation's defense capabilities. The strategic vision outlined by President Traoré sets the stage for a more robust and agile armed forces, ready to face the security challenges of the future.
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Land Force