Faced with shifting security threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the need to strengthen national sovereignty, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has unveiled a major modernisation programme for the defence and security forces. Key measures include the acquisition of MI-35 attack helicopters and new frigates to boost Gabon’s operational capabilities on land, at sea and in the air.
In his state of the nation address, the head of state highlighted the progress made since the start of the Transition in reinforcing the country’s security apparatus. He noted that the ranks of the defence and security forces have been expanded, while new vehicles, specialised equipment, forward posts, police stations and barracks have been built or renovated across the national territory. These investments reflect the authorities’ determination to equip Gabon with a more modern defence tool capable of meeting the new security challenges facing the country.
The Gulf of Guinea at the heart of concerns
One of the major announcements concerns the order of MI-35 attack helicopters and frigates designed to strengthen the country’s surveillance and intervention capabilities. For the executive, these acquisitions respond to the rise of so-called asymmetric threats, notably maritime piracy which continues to affect the Gulf of Guinea, one of Africa’s main commercial shipping zones.
Beyond fighting piracy, these assets are also intended to better combat illegal exploitation of natural resources, cross-border crime and certain forms of organised crime that threaten national stability.
A new sovereignty doctrine
This build-up of military capabilities is part of a broader vision of sovereignty championed by the president. In a regional context marked by geopolitical shifts and growing security challenges, Libreville aims to strengthen its ability to protect its land, maritime and air borders.
The head of state also announced that a military programming law covering the period 2026-2030 is currently under review. This text is intended to plan the investments needed to modernise the Gabonese armed forces and improve their operational capabilities. A similar approach is also planned for the security forces.
Security and development, one and the same battle
For Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, security is now a prerequisite for economic development. Strengthening the security network, modernising equipment and improving force mobility aim to create a more favourable environment for investment and the protection of the population. “My ambition is to make Defence and Security a permanent lever of stability, sovereignty and development for our country,” the head of state told Congress.
Through these announcements, Gabon confirms its determination to modernise its defence tool and adapt to an increasingly complex security environment. An ambitious undertaking whose first results will be closely watched in the coming years.
