Mali Launches Indigenous Arms Industry with Backing from Russia, Iran, Turkey—Eyes End of 2025 Completion

Mali’s transitional President, Colonel Assimi Goïta, has officially announced the establishment of a national arms industry, a major initiative aimed at assembling small arms, ammunition, explosives, and military vehicles domestically.

The announcement, made during a national address, marks a significant shift in Mali’s defense posture amid growing regional insecurity and efforts to reduce dependency on foreign arms suppliers.

“We are launching the creation of a national military industry, which will be completed by the end of 2025,” President Goïta declared.

The project is being developed with the support of Russia, Iran, and Turkey—three strategic partners that have strengthened ties with Bamako in recent years. These collaborations are expected to bring technical expertise, manufacturing technology, and operational guidance to the ambitious endeavor.

As part of its broader defense strategy, Mali has also signed a new defense agreement with Turkey for the supply of Bayraktar TB2 drones, a highly regarded tactical UAV system known for its battlefield efficiency and reconnaissance capabilities.

The move comes at a time when African countries collectively spend an estimated $50 billion annually on military hardware—most of it sourced from outside the continent.

With this new arms industry, Mali aims to not only reduce the financial burden of imports but also build indigenous capabilities to support regional security operations.

Analysts say the initiative could position Mali as a future defense supplier within West Africa, provided the infrastructure, training, and sustainability components are effectively managed.

President Goïta’s announcement reflects a broader trend among African nations seeking greater control over their defense ecosystems amid shifting global alliances and increasing threats from insurgent groups and external actors.

The planned industry is expected to serve both domestic and regional defense needs, signaling Mali’s intent to emerge as a serious player in Africa’s security and defense architecture.