Burkina Faso: 2025, a year of transformation for the National Armed Forces
The year 2025 marks a decisive turning point for the National Armed Forces of Burkina Faso, which have had to adapt to the escalating terrorist threat. Aware of the scale of the security challenges, the authorities, under the leadership of President Ibrahim Traoré, have intensified efforts to modernize and strengthen the military apparatus.
This push has involved a substantial upgrade of equipment, an expansion of personnel, and a diversification of strategic alliances.
Priorities have been clearly defined: to enhance operational effectiveness, improve mobility, and ensure optimal protection for troops.
Emphasis has been placed on improving the operational capabilities of combat forces, notably through the acquisition of new equipment.
Light all-terrain armored vehicles, well-suited to the vast and difficult terrain of the Sahel, have been integrated to enhance mobility.
Tactical surveillance and combat drones have also been deployed, providing a decisive advantage in intelligence-gathering, targeting, and precision strike missions, while reducing risks for ground troops.
Additionally, personal protective equipment has been upgraded for units deployed in the field.
In parallel, 2025 saw the large-scale deployment of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) to secure recaptured areas.
The rapid training and equipping of these volunteers was a strategic priority to support regular forces and disrupt the logistical networks of armed groups.
Finally, the rearmament strategy has been supported by a diversification of partnerships.
New agreements have been signed with countries experienced in counter-insurgency, thereby ensuring greater autonomy and better responsiveness to urgent needs.
However, this ambitious reorganization involves considerable challenges, including the rapid training of personnel and the coordination of different units.
Maurice K.ZONGO
