French military aid bolsters Benin’s explosive hazard response

The military partnership between Benin and France has reached a new milestone, with the delivery of advanced equipment to counter improvised explosive devices (IEDs). On June 23, 2026, the 1st Engineering Battalion and the Centre for Post-Conflict Demining and Pollution Control (CPADD) received a comprehensive set of specialized gear during an official handover ceremony at the CPADD headquarters in Cotonou.

The ceremony was presided over by the chief of staff of the Beninese Armed Forces, represented by Colonel Gilbert Lossitode, with Lieutenant-Colonel Djimon Sahgui, director of the CPADD, in attendance. The French Republic presented a range of cutting-edge tools, including IED detectors, disruptor cannons, portable jammers, specialized intervention vehicles, and state-of-the-art technical equipment. These resources are designed to enhance the detection, neutralization, and intervention capabilities of Beninese forces operating in the northern regions, where IED threats have become increasingly frequent.

Lieutenant-Colonel Sahgui emphasized the critical role of the CPADD and the 1st Engineering Battalion in the current security landscape, noting that the rise of improvised explosive devices demands constant adaptation of operational methods and skills. He praised the strong and exemplary cooperation between Benin and France, highlighting its strategic importance in addressing evolving security challenges.

Lieutenant-Colonel Arnaud Ardillier, defense attaché at the French Embassy in Benin, underscored that this donation represents a concrete investment in the safety of Beninese military personnel and the protection of civilian populations. He specifically highlighted the value of portable jammers, which have become indispensable in IED neutralization operations. The integration of these materials into the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) training programs is expected to significantly bolster the security of field teams while improving the technical capabilities of Beninese forces in response to the evolving tactics of armed groups.

Colonel Gilbert Lossitode, accepting the equipment on behalf of the Beninese Armed Forces, expressed deep gratitude to the French Republic. He described the initiative as an act of solidarity and a tangible commitment to national security. In his address, he also acknowledged the contributions of all partners involved, emphasizing that this support will enhance the efficiency of security operations, particularly within the framework of Operation Mirador.