Top 10 countries in Africa with the largest armoured fighting vehicle fleets in 2025

Armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs) are vital in modern military operations, providing enhanced protection and mobility for ground forces. These vehicles, including tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and armoured personnel carriers, are integral to both offensive and defensive strategies.

Many African nations rely on a mix of domestic production and international partnerships to build and maintain their AFV stocks. Key global suppliers offer modern, cost-effective solutions, while some nations engage in technology transfer and local assembly.

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AFVs play a significant role in strengthening defence capabilities, as evidenced by their inclusion in the Global Firepower annual rankings, which assess ground force effectiveness.

According to Global Firepower, here are the top 10 countries in Africa with the largest armoured fighting vehicle fleets in 2025

1. Egypt – 41,012 AFVs

Egypt leads the continent with a substantial stock of 41,012 armoured fighting vehicles. The country has made significant investments in modernising its military and enhancing its defence readiness. The robust AFV fleet is part of Egypt’s strategic plan to maintain stability and power in the region.

2. Algeria – 26,000 AFVs

Algeria ranks second with 26,000 AFVs. Over the years, Algeria has focused on strengthening its military forces, particularly after regional instability. The large number of AFVs enables the country to project power and maintain security in North Africa.

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3. South Africa – 18,692 AFVs

South Africa comes in third with 18,692 AFVs. With its well-equipped defence forces, South Africa plays an important role in regional peacekeeping and military operations. The country’s AFV inventory contributes to its capacity to secure its borders and support international peace efforts.

4. Nigeria – 8,962 AFVs

Nigeria holds the fourth spot with 8,962 armoured fighting vehicles. As Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria is actively working to strengthen its military forces in response to growing security challenges, including insurgency and terrorism. The country’s AFV stock is key to maintaining control and protecting its citizens.

5. Tunisia – 7,913 AFVs

Tunisia ranks fifth with 7,913 AFVs. Despite being smaller in size compared to some of its neighbours, Tunisia’s military readiness is significant. The country has been enhancing its military capabilities to counter terrorism and safeguard its borders, especially in the wake of regional instability.

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6. Morocco – 7,877 AFVs

Morocco follows closely behind Tunisia with 7,877 armoured fighting vehicles. The country’s military is modern and well-equipped, using its AFVs to strengthen its defence posture and to participate in international peacekeeping missions in Africa and beyond.

7. Ethiopia – 7,256 AFVs

Ethiopia, with 7,256 AFVs, ranks seventh. Ethiopia has faced various internal and external security threats, prompting significant military investment. The country’s AFV inventory ensures its readiness to protect national interests and contribute to regional stability.

8. Angola – 5,500 AFVs

Angola holds the eighth spot with 5,500 AFVs. The country’s military capabilities have evolved over time, particularly after the end of its civil war. Angola’s AFVs are essential to ensuring peace and security within the country and throughout the region.

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9. Kenya – 4,128 AFVs

Kenya ranks ninth with 4,128 AFVs. The country uses its armoured fighting vehicles to bolster its role in regional peacekeeping and to defend against various threats, especially terrorism along its borders with Somalia.

10. Uganda – 3,862 AFVs

Uganda rounds out the top 10 with 3,862 armoured fighting vehicles. The Ugandan military has placed a strong emphasis on securing its borders and maintaining internal stability. The country’s AFVs form an essential part of its overall defence strategy.