On 12 October, a GAZ Tigr was observed at Equatorial Guinea’s military parade, indicating Russian military presence in the country. The vehicle’s specific camouflage and features aligned with Russian military specifications. Earlier reports from *Diario Rombe* noted the arrival of Russian mercenaries in Malabo, pointing to an increasing Russian influence in the region amid a broader context of military cooperation.
On 12 October, during the military parade in Djibloho celebrating Equatorial Guinea’s 56th independence anniversary, a GAZ Tigr—a 4×4 light armored vehicle—was prominently observed in the background as the wife of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo arrived. This sighting aligns with previous reports indicating the deployment of Russian troops in the West African nation. The vehicle displayed a camouflage pattern characteristic of the Russian military, signifying it was likely the SpN variant utilized by certain Russian special operations forces. Notably, the soldier manning the roof hatch was clad in unidentifiable gear, differing from the uniforms worn by local soldiers. The military parade itself showcased several outdated BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicles, while the contemporary armored vehicles featured were predominantly manufactured in China, specifically those used by the Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR). In the lead-up to this event, the Spain-based opposition publication, Diario Rombe, reported on 23 August the arrival of Russian mercenaries in Malabo, the nation’s capital, who were identified as being tasked with the protection of the president and his family. Furthermore, subsequent images published on 14 September depicted European soldiers, including at least one prominently bearing a Russian flag patch, participating alongside African counterparts in what was identified as Bata, a key city in continental Equatorial Guinea. This suggests a growing presence of Russian military personnel within the country, further solidifying the interpretations drawn from the recent parade event.
The military and political landscape in Equatorial Guinea has garnered attention due to its unique positioning in West Africa and the presence of Russian military entities. Following reports of Russian mercenaries operating within the country, the observation of Russian military hardware at a state function points to a potential increase in military collaboration or support. In light of global geopolitics, such developments in Equatorial Guinea may reflect broader Russian interests in the region, primarily aimed at influencing local governance and ensuring strategic partnerships.
The emergence of the GAZ Tigr during Equatorial Guinea’s military parade, combined with reports of Russian mercenaries arriving to safeguard the government, signals a notable shift in the country’s military dynamics. With the integration of Russian military assets, Equatorial Guinea appears to be cultivating a partnership that could have implications for both its internal security and regional stability. The observed military vehicles and personnel highlight an evolving relationship that is likely to attract further scrutiny from the international community.
Original Source: www.janes.com
