Togo acquires transport helicopters from Poland

The Togo Air Force has stationed newly acquired Polish-manufactured helicopters at its Lomé base to bolster internal security and support counter-insurgency operations.

The deployment includes at least one PZL W-3 Sokół and a modernised PZL Mi-2 light transport model, both produced by the PZL-Świdnik factory in Poland. Under the command of Air Brigadier General Agnidoufey Mamah (promoted on 8 August 2025), these aircraft are now operational at the capital’s main military facility.

These helicopters supplement an existing fleet of Russian-built Mi-35 attack and Mi-17 transport helicopters. Unlike the heavy Russian platforms, the Polish-designed W-3 Sokół and Mi-2 offer more versatile, lighter alternatives for rapid response. They provide the Togolese Armed Forces (FAT) with increased mobility as they engage in Operation Koundjoaré. This operation aims to secure the northern Savanes region, where the government recently extended a state of emergency on 27 February 2026 to combat incursions by jihadist groups.

The PZL W-3A Sokół is a six-ton class, twin-engine multipurpose helicopter designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +43°C. It features a maximum takeoff weight of 6,400 kg and can carry up to 12 passengers or 2,100 kg of internal cargo. For tactical missions, the 2006-era models often include an electric rescue hoist with a 272 kg capacity and compatibility for night vision goggles (NVG).

The Mi-2Plus is an upgraded version of the legacy Mil Mi-2 “Hoplite” design. The 2004-era modernisation by PZL-Świdnik replaced original engines with GTD-350P turboshafts, which improve performance in the “hot and high” conditions typical of West African climates. This variant carries up to eight passengers and supports medical evacuation (MedEvac) configurations with two stretchers and two attendants.

Strategic shift in procurement

Acquiring Polish aviation technology marks a diversification of Togo’s defence partnerships. While Togo has historically relied on French and Russian equipment, the turn toward PZL-Świdnik—a subsidiary of the Italian multinational Leonardo—shows a preference for rugged, cost-effective European systems. The move mirrors broader regional trends where West African states seek specialised utility aircraft rather than expensive, high-end fighter jets to address asymmetrical threats.

The W-3 Sokół is rare in African service, with Algeria being one of the few other operators on the continent. Its presence in Lomé suggests a focus on logistics and Search and Rescue (SAR) capabilities that the heavier Mi-35 cannot efficiently provide. The secondary role for these aircraft involves firefighting and medical transport, essential for maintaining civilian stability in conflict-affected northern zones.

The deployment likely fills a critical gap in tactical airlift and casualty evacuation for frontline units. By integrating these Polish platforms, the Togo Air Force increases its flight hours while lowering the maintenance burden associated with older Soviet-era airframes. Future deliveries or maintenance contracts with PZL-Świdnik may follow as Togo continues its multi-year fleet modernisation initiative.

In 2022, the Togolese military took delivery of three Mi-35M combat helicopters and two Mi-17 transport helicopters in early November from Russia. Faced with a jihadist threat on Chad’s northern border and with troops engaged in peacekeeping operations in Mali. The new helicopters will join the fight against Violent Extremist Organisations (VEO) operating in the region, and threatening the country.

On 4 April 2024, a Togolese Mi-35 attack helicopter taking part in a counterinsurgency operation in the north crashed. The helicopter is said to have crashed in northern Togo while fighting insurgents on 4 April 2024. There were no fatalities, but many crew members were injured and were hospitalised. The helicopter was destroyed.