The Nigerian army recently attended the IDEX trade show in Abu Dhabi to explore purchasing armoured vehicles from Eagles International for Defense Systems, an Egyptian company known for its expertise in manufacturing armoured solutions for both civilian and military use.
Eagles International specializes in a diverse range of vehicles, including luxury armoured SUVs, sedans, buses, Armoured Personnel Carriers, Cash-in-Transit vehicles, and armoured Security Guard Cabins, all designed to provide protection and comfort in high-threat environments.
Among their standout products are the Buffalo MRAP, T-4 armoured vehicles, Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle, E-3 armoured personnel carriers, Sou-6 armoured vehicles, Light Patrol Vehicle Tactical, and T6 APC, showcasing their capability to meet varied operational demands.
Notably, the Buffalo armoured personnel carrier has already been delivered to Burkina Faso, proving its reliability in real-world conditions. At the EDEX 2023 exhibition in Egypt, Eagles International unveiled the Buffalo D10 diesel MRAP, a 6×6 vehicle capable of carrying up to 12 personnel, including a driver, commander, and gunner.
This advanced model features a V-shaped hull to protect against landmines and improvised explosive devices, along with ballistic armour that can withstand 7.62 mm armour-piercing rounds and shell splinters. The Nigerian army’s interest in these vehicles aligns with its need to strengthen its defenses against such threats, which are prevalent in conflict zones across the region.
Egypt’s defense industry has strategically pivoted toward leveraging domestic supply chains and locally manufactured materials, such as armor steel and bulletproof glass, to sustain its production of armored vehicles.
This shift was precipitated, in part, by political constraints imposed by certain European nations. A notable example is Germany’s decision in 2013/14 to impose a ban on the export of armor steel and chassis for FAHD Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) to Egypt, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions. In response, Egypt has bolstered its self-reliance by establishing indigenous production lines, most prominently for the Temsah armored vehicle series. This versatile lineup includes models such as the 4×4 troop transport and the 6×6 personnel carrier, both engineered to address the operational demands of contemporary ground forces.
Beyond its focus on armored vehicles, Egypt’s defense sector encompasses a broad spectrum of manufacturing capabilities. The country produces an array of defense products, including; small arms, armoured vehicles, and naval vessels.
To further enhance its defense industry, Egypt has forged co-production agreements with leading global partners, notably the United States and France. These collaborations provide access to advanced technologies, elevate production standards, and expand Egypt’s industrial capacity.
For instance, partnerships with the U.S. have facilitated the integration of sophisticated systems into Egypt’s defense outputs, while cooperation with France has supported naval and armored vehicle projects. Such alliances not only strengthen Egypt’s domestic capabilities but also position it as a competitive player in the international defense market.
Looking forward, Egypt is actively pursuing an ambitious strategy to expand its defense export market and diversify its partnerships, with a particular emphasis on Africa and the Middle East. This focus is driven by several factors:
