Niger has entered into a landmark agreement with Glavkosmos, a subsidiary of Russia’s Roscosmos space agency, to acquire three satellites designed to enhance security efforts in the Sahel region. The agreement, confirmed by Nigerien Communications Minister Sidi Mohamed Raliou, includes the procurement of a communications satellite, a remote sensing satellite, and a radar satellite, all of which will be developed in Russia over the coming four years.

This satellite agreement follows the recent establishment of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in September 2023, a coalition between Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—all currently under military rule—formed to collectively address escalating jihadist threats. This alliance marks a significant shift in regional alliances, as the AES countries have severed diplomatic ties with France and pivoted toward strengthening partnerships with Russia.

Glavkosmos will provide loaned equipment to support the region’s security efforts until the satellites are operational. These new satellites will enable AES members to independently oversee communication and surveillance activities, essential for managing the persistent violence that has destabilised the Sahel since 2012.

At a signing ceremony in the capital, Niamey, Nigerien Communications Minister Sidi Mohamed Raliou announced that the agreement includes the acquisition of three satellites: one for communications, another for remote sensing, and a third for radar. These satellites will be manufactured in Russia over a four-year period. “This very important project falls within the framework of the sovereignty of our countries,” the minister said.

Meanwhile, Niger’s state radio reported that Glavkosmos has agreed to provide loaned equipment to support Niger’s immediate needs until the new satellites are operational.

 “At the end of this project, the three countries will be able to pilot their communication satellites themselves and manage them as they wish,” the ANP Nigerien press agency quoted the minister as saying.