Russian Military Presence Evidenced by GAZ Tigr at Equatorial Guinea Parade
The presence of a Russian GAZ Tigr tactical vehicle during the military parade in Equatorial Guinea on October 12 suggests an increase in Russian military involvement in the country. Images and reports from Diario Rombe detail sightings of Russian troops slated to provide security to the presidency, highlighting a potential shift in the military support that Equatorial Guinea receives.
On October 12, during the military parade in Djibloho marking the 56th anniversary of Equatorial Guinea’s independence, a Russian GAZ Tigr tactical vehicle was prominently featured in the background as the First Lady of Equatorial Guinea arrived. This event has raised significant interest regarding the presence of Russian military forces in the country. The GAZ Tigr, a 4×4 light armored vehicle, displayed a camouflage pattern utilized by the Russian military, which had not been previously observed in Equatorial Guinea. Furthermore, the vehicle was equipped with smoke grenade launchers indicative of the SpN variant employed by certain Russian special forces. The soldier visible in the roof hatch was attired in a uniform and helmet inconsistent with those of the local military personnel. The parade predominantly showcased modern Chinese armored vehicles serving with the country’s Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR), while the only Russian-made vehicles present were four older BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicles. Further corroboration of the Russian presence comes from an article published by the Spain-based opposition newspaper, Diario Rombe. The publication released images on August 23 depicting soldiers, identified as Russian mercenaries, who had allegedly arrived in Malabo to provide security to the president and his family, with expectations of a further Russian deployment to the continental region. Subsequent reports from Diario Rombe on September 14 featured photographs of European soldiers, at least one of whom bore a Russian flag patch, alongside their African counterparts in Bata, the principal city on the mainland of Equatorial Guinea.
The military landscape in Equatorial Guinea has attracted considerable attention, particularly in light of reports concerning Russian military involvement in West Africa. The October 12 military parade served as a platform to highlight not only the country’s military assets but also the gradual introduction of foreign military forces. Reports of Russian mercenaries operating in Equatorial Guinea and their role in protecting the country’s leadership add a layer of complexity to the geopolitical dynamics in the region.
The appearance of a Russian GAZ Tigr at Equatorial Guinea’s military parade underscores the growing presence of Russian forces in the region, following previous reports of Russian mercenaries arriving to safeguard the president and his family. This presence coincides with the display of both Russian and modern Chinese military equipment, hinting at a shifting balance of military alliances in Equatorial Guinea and raising questions regarding the implications for regional security.
Original Source: www.janes.com
