According to information disclosed through Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), China has delivered a new batch of CS/VP14 MRAP mine-resistant armored vehicles—manufactured by the state-owned China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO)—to the Armed Forces of Mali. Specifically, recently released images show the vehicles being unloaded at the port of Guinea, apparently before being transported by land to Malian territory.
Based on the images, this first batch consists of 36 armored vehicles, representing a significant addition to the logistical and operational capabilities of the Malian Armed Forces. However, it is important to note that this delivery is part of a larger contract that includes a total of 160 CS/VP14 MRAP units.
These 4×4 platforms, designed to withstand improvised explosive devices (MRAP, for its acronym in English), were specifically conceived to operate in asymmetric conflict environments. The CS/VP14 can carry up to 11 personnel and has STANAG 4569 Level 3b certification, meaning it can withstand blasts of up to 8 kg of TNT.
Additionally, it can be equipped with modular armor to protect the crew against 7.62 mm armor-piercing ammunition. Until the delivery to Mali was confirmed, the Kenyan Army was the only force known to operate the new CS/VP14, highlighting the selective distribution of this Chinese model.
China’s expansion as a military supplier in Africa
At this point, it is worth noting that the agreement between China and Mali not only strengthens the tactical capabilities of the Malian Armed Forces but also reinforces the strategic relationship between Beijing and various African governments. The supply of military equipment aims to consolidate the Asian giant’s position as a key provider for regimes seeking alternatives amid restrictions imposed by Western countries.
Similarly, during 2024, Burkina Faso received a new shipment of armored vehicles that included at least 50 CS/VP14 MRAPs, 30 VN22 6×6s, and 10 CS/VN9 6×6s, along with Shacman logistics trucks. Previously, the country had also received 6×6 WZ‑551 armored vehicles in command post, mortar carrier (CS/SM1), and tank destroyer (WMA301) variants, thus reinforcing its fire support and troop transport capabilities.
This trend is also observed in other countries across the region, where NORINCO is expanding its presence by opening new sales offices in Dakar (Senegal) and operating in Nigeria and Niger, in competition with traditional suppliers such as France and Russia. Altogether, these sales continue to solidify China’s growing role as a major player in supplying military equipment to African governments, who prioritize availability, competitive costs, and the absence of Western political conditions.
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