Cameroon is a country located in Central Africa, connected by Nigeria to the west, Chad to the northeast, the Main African Republic to the east, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo to the south. With inhabitants of over 25 million individuals, the country is faced with many security challenges, including terrorism, revolution, and armed larceny.
To address these challenges, the Cameroonian government has invested in the acquisition and deployment of armored vehicles in Cameroon These vehicles provide critical protection for soldiers and police officers as they carry out their duties, and help to deter criminal activities.
One of the most notable armored vehicles used in Cameroon is the Bastion APC (Armored Personnel Carrier). The Bastion APC is manufactured by the French company Renault Trucks Defense and is designed to provide excellent protection against small arms fire and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). It is equipped with a V-shaped hull that helps to deflect blasts away from the vehicle and has a top speed of 100 km/h. The Bastion APC is often used by the Cameroonian military in operations against Boko Haram terrorists in the northern part of the country.
There are many types of armored vehicles used in Cameroon for a range of different purposes. Some of the most common types of armored vehicles used in Cameroon include:
- Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs): APCs are designed to transport soldiers and provide them with protection against small arms fire and improvised explosive devices. They are heavily armored vehicles in Cameroon and can be equipped with a variety of weapons.
- Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles: MRAPs are designed to provide protection against IEDs and landmines. They have a V-shaped hull that helps to deflect blasts away from the vehicle and is heavily armored.
- Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs): LAVs are highly maneuverable and fast, with a top speed of up to 120 km/h. They are often used for reconnaissance and surveillance and can be equipped with a range of weapons.
- Main Battle Tanks (MBTs): MBTs are heavily armored and are designed to engage enemy forces in combat. They are equipped with large-caliber guns and can fire a range of ammunition types.
- Anti-Aircraft Vehicles: Anti-aircraft vehicles are designed to engage enemy planes and provide air defense for troops on the ground. They are typically equipped with surface-to-air missiles and heavy machine guns.
- Artillery Vehicles: Artillery vehicles are used to provide indirect fire support for troops on the ground. They are typically equipped with howitzers or other types of artillery guns.
- Engineering Vehicles: These vehicles are used to support military engineers in constructing or destroying obstacles, building fortifications or other infrastructure, and clearing landmines or other obstacles. They are typically equipped with bulldozer blades, excavator buckets, or other specialized equipment.
- Armored Cars: Armored cars are used for VIP protection, transporting high-ranking officials, or carrying out reconnaissance missions. They are typically less heavily armored than other types of armored vehicles, but still provide protection against small arms fire and improvised explosive devices.
- Amphibious Vehicles: Amphibious vehicles are designed to operate on both land and water, making them ideal for use in areas with water obstacles or difficult terrain. They are typically equipped with special tracks or wheels that allow them to operate in water.
- Reconnaissance Vehicles: Reconnaissance vehicles are used to gather information about enemy positions, movements, and capabilities. They are typically fast, lightly armored, and equipped with sensors, cameras, and other surveillance equipment.
- Command and Control Vehicles: These vehicles are used to coordinate and direct military operations. They are typically equipped with communication equipment, computer systems, and other specialized equipment for managing and directing troops.
The use of armored vehicles in Cameroon is not limited to military operations alone. Law enforcement agencies such as the police and gendarmerie also use armored vehicles for maintaining law and order in the country. Also, private security companies also use armored vehicles to provide security for individuals or organizations.
Armored vehicles used by law enforcement agencies in Cameroon are typically smaller and less heavily armored than military vehicles but still provide protection against small arms fire and other threats. They are used for tasks such as transporting prisoners, responding to high-risk incidents, and providing security for VIPs.
Private security companies in Cameroon use armored vehicles to protect their clients from criminal activity and other threats. These vehicles are typically like those used by law enforcement agencies but may be more heavily armored to provide more protection. They are often used to transport valuable goods, such as cash or precious metals, or to provide security for high-profile events.
The use of armored vehicles by law enforcement agencies and private security companies in Cameroon highlights the importance of security in the country and the need for effective measures to protect against a range of threats. Whether it is protecting military personnel in combat, maintaining law and order, or providing security for individuals or organizations, armored vehicles play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of Cameroon’s people.