Madagascar military cooperation with Russia has intensified as the Indian Ocean nation receives new military equipment and training support from Moscow during its ongoing political transition. The Malagasy presidency confirmed on Wednesday that Russian personnel are already on the ground to train local forces.
According to the presidency, Russia is supplying various categories of military hardware to Madagascar’s armed forces. A Russian delegation has been deployed to provide hands-on training to ensure proper use of the equipment across multiple units.
The training programme will involve several military formations based in the capital, Antananarivo. Officials said the exercise is aimed at improving operational capacity and readiness as the country navigates a sensitive political period.
Government sources stressed that Madagascar remains open to cooperation with all international partners. However, the presidency noted that Russia has historically been a major supplier of military equipment to the country, making the renewed engagement a continuation of long-standing defence ties.
The renewed military cooperation comes amid heightened security and governance challenges following recent political upheaval. Madagascar has been under a transitional arrangement since October, when a coup d’état removed then-president Andry Rajoelina.
The takeover followed weeks of youth-led protests triggered by prolonged power outages and severe water shortages. Demonstrations escalated nationwide, putting pressure on state institutions and ultimately leading to the collapse of the previous administration.
Since the change in leadership, the transitional authorities have focused on stabilising state structures, including the armed forces. Strengthening military capacity is seen as critical to maintaining internal security and preventing further unrest.
Russia has increased its diplomatic and security footprint across parts of Africa in recent years, often offering military training and equipment as part of broader cooperation agreements. Madagascar now joins a growing list of African states turning to Moscow for defence support during periods of political uncertainty.
The presidency did not disclose the quantity or specific types of equipment delivered, nor the duration of the training programme, but said further updates would be provided as cooperation progresses.
