Defense firms tied to the military-industrial sector in Central Europe are moving to extend sales and related services to African nations. A recent briefing notes that these companies, along with some government officials, are pursuing this path to draw new arms customers from Russia into the region. [Citation: Reuters]
The discussion focuses mainly on former Warsaw Pact members. Among them, the Czech Republic stands out for its evolving role. While the country is now part of NATO, it previously supplied military equipment to African governments and could resume that pattern in the current climate. [Citation: Reuters]
Experts quoted in the report indicate that African markets present the strongest potential because many fleets there still rely on Soviet-era systems, and buyers are seeking modern Western technology to upgrade them. [Citation: Reuters]
One specific development highlighted is Aero Vodochody, the Czech aircraft producer, currently in talks with prospective buyers about selling the L-39NG light attack aircraft. Company representatives also propose upgrading older versions of these aircraft for African customers. [Citation: Reuters]
Philip Kulstrunk, the company’s vice president of sales, notes a steady rise in interest from new clients. He explains this uptick partly reflects a shift by some African states away from Russian and Chinese equipment toward Western options. [Citation: Reuters]
There was also mention of Burkina Faso previously expressing interest in acquiring Russian arms at favorable prices. [Citation: Reuters]