Russian Arms Exports Plummet 43%, Raising Questions About Putin's New African Deals

Sharp Decline in Russian Weapons Sales

According to Главком: Russia's arms exports have suffered a dramatic 43% drop between 2020 and 2024 compared to the previous five-year period. This significant downturn comes as President Vladimir Putin announced major new weapons export contracts with African nations, emphasizing a push to increase military shipments. The announcement was made during a meeting of the commission on military-technical cooperation. This move is widely seen as an attempt to offset losses in traditional markets and find new revenue streams for its defense industry.

Putin stated that Russia had built a substantial portfolio of new export orders in the arms market over the past year. However, data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) shows that Russian arms exports sharply declined following the start of its full-scale war against Ukraine. Concurrently, Russia is actively strengthening its strategic ties with the juntas of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Expanding Military and Media Influence in Africa

In addition to arms deals, Russian state propaganda media now broadcasts in over 40 African countries in six languages. Starting in June 2025, content translation into Portuguese for the markets of Mozambique and Angola began, with Amharic-language broadcasts for audiences in Ethiopia planned by year's end.

"Moscow sincerely values the historically strong ties and truly trusting relationships with African countries," noted Vladimir Putin.

This steep decline in Russian arms exports likely reflects growing international sanctions and Russia's isolation due to its aggressive foreign policy. Meanwhile, efforts to expand its military and media footprint in Africa appear to be part of a Kremlin strategy to rebuild economic and political links with nations that do not support Western sanctions. Strengthening these ties could significantly impact regional security and political dynamics across Africa, given Russia's increasing influence on the continent.