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Top 22: The Most Important Weapons in the Nigerian Army

Top 22: The most important weapons in the Nigerian Army

Mikkel Preisler
By Mikkel Preisler 16. July 2025

The Nigerian Army stands as one of the strongest military forces in West Africa. Here is a list of 22 of its most important weapon systems, showcasing the equipment that shapes its combat capabilities.

#22: MT-LB (Soviet Union)

A versatile tracked armored vehicle used for mine-clearing, transport, and engineering operations in difficult terrain.

#21: Type 89 (China)

This Chinese armored personnel carrier offers safe and flexible transport for infantry on the battlefield.

#20: BMP-1 (Soviet Union)

An older infantry fighting vehicle equipped with a 73mm cannon and missiles, still effective against enemy tanks.

#19: BTR-3 (Ukraine)

An 8×8 armored vehicle providing protected transport and strong fire support, especially useful in urban combat and along main routes.

#18: Piranha I (Switzerland)

Swiss armored personnel carrier known for its mobility and firepower, often deployed against insurgent forces.

#17: Saurer 4K4FA (Austria)

An armored vehicle designed to protect against gunfire and mines, ideal for flank and convoy security.

#16: Plasan SandCat (Israel)

A lightly armored vehicle used by special forces, perfect for patrol and security missions.

#15: Reva Mk III (South Africa)

Mine-resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicle that shields troops from mines and grenades in conflict zones.

#14: International MaxxPro (USA)

An American MRAP vehicle ideal for protecting troops against roadside bombs in northeastern Nigeria.

#13: CS/VP3 (China)

MRAP vehicle offering effective protection against roadside bombs and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during patrols.

#12: ZSU-23-4 Shilka (Russia)

A self-propelled anti-aircraft gun designed to engage low-flying aircraft and helicopters.

#11: Bofors L/60 (Sweden)

Anti-aircraft gun capable of rapid fire against low-flying targets such as helicopters and drones.

#10: BMP-2 (Soviet Union)

Infantry fighting vehicle providing strong fire support and troop protection.

#9: 155mm Palmaria (Italy)

Long-range artillery crucial for offensives against insurgent positions.

#8: Multiple Rocket Launcher System MRLS (China)

Delivers powerful rocket barrages against enemy forces.

#7: VT-4 Main Battle Tank (China)

Modern main battle tank equipped with powerful armament and advanced armor.

#6: Mil Mi-35M Hind (Russia)

Attack helicopter providing strong close air support against enemy forces.

#5: T-72 Main Battle Tank (Russia)

Classic Russian main battle tank still widely used in fighting insurgents.

#4: Chengdu F-7NI (China)

A reliable air defense fighter jet safeguarding Nigerian airspace.

#3: Embraer A-29 Super Tucano (Brazil)

Light attack aircraft offering effective close air support and reconnaissance against insurgents.

#2: Bayraktar TB2 Drone (Turkey)

Advanced unmanned aerial vehicle with precision strike and surveillance capabilities, central in the fight against Boko Haram.

#1: CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder (Pakistan/China)

Modern multirole fighter jet providing Nigeria with a decisive advantage through advanced radar and precision weapons for both air defense and ground attack missions.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.