Egypt has emerged as the African leader in armored fighting vehicles (AFVs), boasting the largest stock of combat tanks on the continent and securing the 12th position globally, according to a report by Global Firepower. The North African nation's impressive arsenal consists of 41,012 combat tanks, solidifying its position as a regional military powerhouse.

AFVs, which encompass tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and armored personnel carriers, play a critical role in military strategies, enhancing ground force protection, facilitating troop transport, and supporting offensive and defensive operations. For African nations facing a variety of security challenges, AFVs provide a strategic edge by safeguarding personnel and boosting operational effectiveness.

Africa's armored fleets are sourced through a blend of domestic production and international partnerships. Countries such as South Africa, with its well-established defense industry, manufacture AFVs locally, exemplified by the Rooikat armored reconnaissance vehicle. Other nations, including Egypt and Algeria, collaborate with global defense manufacturers for technology transfer and local assembly initiatives, strengthening their defense capabilities.

Leading global suppliers to African countries include Russia, the United States, China, and Turkey, offering a wide array of modern, cost-effective armored solutions. The most widely used AFV/APC models include the American M2 Bradley, the Russian/Soviet BMP and BTR series, and various Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) vehicles.

According to Global Firepower (GFP), AFVs and Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) significantly bolster ground force capabilities and are key metrics in the GFP annual rankings. GFP also includes mortar carriers in its assessments but excludes vehicles still in development or on order for the upcoming year.

Following Egypt, Algeria ranks second in Africa, with a substantial 26,000 tanks, ranking 16th worldwide. South Africa holds third place on the continent, maintaining a stock of 18,692 tanks and ranking 27th globally. The top 10 African countries with the most armored fighting vehicles in 2025 are:

1. Egypt - 41,012 combat tanks (12th globally)

2. Algeria - 26,000 tanks (16th globally)

3. South Africa - 18,692 tanks (27th globally)

4. Nigeria - 8,962 tanks (43rd globally)

5. Tunisia - 7,913 tanks (47th globally)

6. Morocco - 7,877 tanks (48th globally)

7. Ethiopia - 7,256 tanks (53rd globally)

8. Angola - 5,500 tanks (63rd globally)

9. Kenya - 4,128 tanks (72nd globally)

10. Uganda - 3,862 tanks (74th globally)

The significance of AFVs in African military strategies cannot be overstated, as they provide a critical edge in safeguarding personnel and boosting operational effectiveness. As the continent continues to grapple with various security challenges, the role of AFVs is likely to remain pivotal in shaping the region's military landscape.

The full report by Global Firepower provides a comprehensive overview of Africa's armored fleets, offering valuable insights into the region's military capabilities and the implications for regional security.