Côte d'Ivoire acquires VN22B armored assault vehicles from China.

The China North Industries Group Corporation Limited (Norinco) has recently completed the delivery of an unspecified number of VN22B wheeled armored assault vehicles to Côte d'Ivoire. Images first released on Weibo and then on X (formerly Twitter) showed the arrival of a batch of these modern Chinese assault vehicles in Côte d'Ivoire, with at least six VN22B vehicles visible in the video.
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The VN22B  Chinese armored vehicles in Côte d'Ivoire (Picture source: Chinese social media)

Equipped with a powerful 105 mm cannon, the 6x6 VN22B armored vehicles are compatible with all standard NATO 105 mm ammunition, enhancing their versatility in various operational contexts.

The VN22B is designed to provide robust fire support to ground forces. It features a chassis designed for maximum protection, including integrated additional armor for increased survival on the battlefield. Notable features include a fully electronically controlled automatic transmission, full liquid pneumatic lift body suspension, a hydraulic V-shaped protective tailgate, and a suspended seat, all contributing to its defensive strength.

The VN22B is a modern Chinese-wheeled armored vehicle, first revealed at the Zhuhai air show in 2021. As a 6-wheel infantry combat vehicle, it features a design that aligns with contemporary European armored vehicles. Its structure consists of three main parts: a front section for the driver with an adjacent engine compartment, a centrally mounted unmanned turret, and a rear compartment for troops.

The VN22B offers significant ballistic protection, capable of withstanding 25 mm caliber ammunition at the front and light arms up to 14.5 mm caliber all around. A distinctive feature is the absence of side windows, suggesting the use of cameras for 360° awareness. The vehicle can accommodate up to nine infantrymen, with specialized seating arrangements in the troop compartment. The turret is equipped with additional armor.

Following Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire is the second country to acquire these Chinese assault vehicles. African nations are increasingly turning to Chinese military equipment for several reasons. First, Chinese equipment is often more affordable than Western alternatives, making it financially attractive for African budgets. Additionally, China imposes fewer political conditions on its military sales, which appeals to many African governments. Furthermore, China has been proactive in its diplomatic and commercial relations with African countries, often including military equipment agreements in broader economic deals.

Notable examples include Nigeria's acquisition of Chinese CH-3 drones and Nigeria and Myanmar's purchase of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, a Sino-Pakistani joint venture. Additionally, the Zimbabwean army has integrated Chinese military trucks and other equipment into its forces. These examples underline the growing influence of Chinese military equipment on the African defense market.