Russia Secretly Supplies BMP-3 Infantry Fighting Vehicles to Madagascar’s Military Junta

Russia is secretly providing weapons to the military junta in Madagascar. This equipment includes BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles, which are now the most powerful armored assets on the island, according to Militarnyi on April 2.

The delivery also included man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS), ammunition, and gear for infantry. These modern Russian BMPs represent a significant upgrade for Madagascar’s army. This military buildup coincides with a period of deep political transition for the island nation following the October 14 coup, as the new administration under Michael Randrianirina seeks closer ties with Moscow and potential BRICS membership while the country remains suspended from the African Union.

Previously, its primary ground strength consisted of about 12 PT-76 light amphibious tanks, though their current operational status is not clear.

On February 24, reports surfaced that Russia delivered a shipment of equipment and 63 tons of cargo to the island. Officially, the Russian side described this as “humanitarian aid” intended to help the country recover from the effects of Cyclone Fitia .

The delivery was carried out using Il-76 and An-124 transport aircraft belonging to the Russian Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

In December 2025, reports indicated that Russia was supporting the Madagascar military junta with weapons and had sent military personnel to the country. This follows a period of political instability on the island.

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A military coup occurred in Madagascar on October 14. This followed anti-government protests and the departure of the former president, Andry Rajoelina, to France. Shortly after the coup, Randrianirina, the commander of the elite CAPSAT unit, took over as the country’s president.

Previously, Russia reportedly supplied KamAZ-53949 “Typhoon-K” armored vehicles to Ethiopia’s National Defense Forces, according to an OSINT analyst.

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