The Addis Defense Summit: Unlocking Tech Partnerships for a Safer Africa
In a bold move to strengthen continental security, African Chiefs of Staff of the Army visited France in 2024. This sparked an initiative by General Pierre Schill, Chief of Staff of the French Army (CEMAT), who launched the inaugural Rencontre Capacitaires Afrique. This platform aims to foster collaboration and dialogue between African land forces and the French defense industry, exploring co-development opportunities to transform armies across Africa.
This year's seminar focused on a critical question: "How can states enhance their sovereignty through national security, border protection, and civilian support in the 21st century?"
On the sidelines of the summit in Addis Ababa, General Schill shared his insights with Capital's Groum Abate. The Defense B2B Forum, organized by GICAT and COGES, brought together African army chiefs and high-level delegations from countries like Benin, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Rwanda, represented by its Army Directorate. French defense companies also participated, discussing emerging opportunities in equipment, software, and strategic partnerships.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Capital: What are the primary objectives of this event, and what does France hope to achieve?
General Pierre Schill: This event brings together African army leaders and defense industry representatives, primarily from France. The goal is to facilitate dialogue, discussing future opportunities for armed forces.
Capital: How does France address the evolving security needs of African countries?
General Pierre Schill: Every army faces procurement and capacity challenges. Land forces have unique needs, requiring a range of equipment. Rapid technological innovation raises questions about procurement priorities. Whether in Europe or Africa, this is a global challenge.
Capital: Were there specific military equipment or software that caught the delegates' attention?
General Pierre Schill: Delegates, including army chiefs, showed interest in drones, anti-drone systems, command and control (C2) digital systems, and AI for decision-making. Ammunition, main vehicles, and logistics were also key focuses. These areas are of global interest, especially in Africa, where each nation has unique needs based on its circumstances and threats.
Capital: Many African countries invest heavily in human capital and technology.
General Pierre Schill: New technologies and webinars are often seen as expensive. However, many new technologies offer cost-effective, rapidly deployable equipment with significant impact. Command and control capabilities and inexpensive drones can provide valuable intelligence and protection. I believe African countries should focus on these affordable, effective solutions. Developing these capabilities domestically is essential for many African nations, just as it is for France to have local manufacturers.
And this is the part most people miss...
Capital: How does France balance supporting African security forces with ethical concerns about military technology transfer?
General Pierre Schill: France aims for partnerships addressing operational needs and reinforcing collaboration through shared capabilities or joint procurement. These partnerships have political, military, and industrial dimensions.
Capital: Were there any game-changing technologies or innovations presented at the event for African forces?
General Pierre Schill: I mentioned command and control (C2) systems, which have the potential to revolutionize armies, including those in Africa. With AI advancements and intelligence analysis, C2 systems can aid military decision-making. The increasing use of drones in warfare and defense is remarkable. Four years ago, we recognized their role, but their evolution as a threat and vital tool for all armies, including African forces, has been transformative for intelligence gathering and offensive operations.
Capital: Did the event discuss military training, capacity building, or joint exercises alongside equipment procurement?
General Pierre Schill: Discussions encompassed procurement, but it's about more than just acquiring equipment. It's about developing operational capacity, which requires trained personnel. The conversations addressed effective equipment use and integration with other capabilities.
Capital: Were any contracts signed or feasibility studies conducted?
General Pierre Schill: I'm not aware of any signed contracts, as the relationship is complex. The primary purpose wasn't to finalize contracts but to exchange information. Industry representatives informed military leaders, and military chiefs expressed their needs. This initial discussion could lead to future commercial agreements. The immediate goal was not contract signing, but one-on-one discussions may have initiated contacts.
Capital: How important are partnerships and collaboration in technology development between French companies and African nations?
General Pierre Schill: The primary aim is operational cooperation between the French army and African armies. This is not just France-Africa cooperation but France-individual country collaboration. Operational cooperation is essential to address growing threats. For instance, we are in Ethiopia, surrounded by regions facing terrorism and internal conflicts. Strong operational cooperation, enhanced by tactical and industrial collaboration, is vital.
Capital: What message do you want to convey to African military chiefs and the public about France's commitment to security collaboration?
General Pierre Schill: The key message is confidence. I want my African counterparts to see me as a genuine partner. This partnership should be long-term, beyond transactional equipment exchanges. It should encompass joint operations, peacekeeping missions, training exchanges, military doctrine discussions, and industrial cooperation. I have much to learn from African armies, particularly the Ethiopian army, which is large, operational, and engaged in various peacekeeping missions. True partnership hinges on dialogue, focusing on both sides' needs. We must pragmatically determine our collaborative goals and follow through.
Capital: How can French companies compete with cheaper manufacturers like China and Russia?
General Pierre Schill: French companies may not always be the most effective in every domain, but most equipment in the French army comes from French companies, and I believe it is efficient. If it meets our needs, it likely meets others' needs too. I procure equipment from French industries at competitive prices, balancing cost, timing, and effectiveness. Some French equipment provides the right price, time, and effectiveness when compared to others.
