Niger Signs Deal with Russian Firm to Acquire 3 Satellites for Enhanced Sahel Security

Niger has signed a memorandum of understanding with Glavkosmos, a subsidiary of Russia’s state-owned Roscosmos, to acquire three satellites designed to bolster security in Niger and its neighboring Sahel states, Mali and Burkina Faso.

According to Nigerien state media, the agreement was formalized in Niamey by the country’s Minister of Communication, Posts, and Digital Economy, Sidi Mohamed Raliou.

As part of the deal, Niger will receive three types of satellites: a communications satellite, a remote sensing satellite, and a radar satellite. Raliou mentioned that the project would unfold over four years, but to address immediate security needs, Glavkosmos will lease similar satellite equipment to Niger and its partners until the new satellites become operational.

Additionally, Raliou indicated plans to establish a satellite command center in one of the AES (Alliance of Sahel States) countries, with secondary reception and transmission centers in each nation. He emphasized the project’s importance for the sovereignty of the countries involved and noted that training programs will be provided for personnel who will operate the equipment.

Upon completion, and after training local specialists, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso will have the capability to independently operate the satellites.

This agreement follows a meeting in Bamako, Mali, in September, where Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso announced a deal with Russia for acquiring at least two surveillance satellites and telecom equipment aimed at strengthening national security.

The deal also follows a similar agreement between Mali and Glavkosmos in November 2023, allowing Mali to use Russian satellite technology to enhance telecommunications and internet coverage across its territory.

The move comes as these Sahel states face mounting attacks from groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS. In response to growing insecurity and a lack of support from France, their former ally, the Sahel countries—now all under military rule—have sought stronger ties with Russia in defense and economic matters.