Landlocked African nation set to complete major naval facility with Russian support

Business Insider

5 hours ago

Ethiopia is set to complete construction of its new Navy Headquarters in the capital, marking a major step in its ambitions to reestablish a national naval force, despite being landlocked for over three decades.
Ethiopia is nearing completion of its Navy Headquarters in Addis Ababa, despite being landlocked.
The facility spans three hectares and includes various administrative and support structures.
A naval cooperation agreement was signed with Russia in 2025 to support naval development.
According to Sputnik Africa, Ethiopia's naval facility in Addis Ababa's Janmeda area is reportedly 95% complete.
The 3-hectare site boasts a four-story complex that will house administrative offices, a medical clinic, meeting halls, sports facilities, and other support infrastructure, with the project on track for completion as scheduled.
This development is part of Ethiopia's broader strategy to reassert itself as a regional power in the Horn of Africa.
Despite being landlocked since Eritrea's independence in 1993, Ethiopian authorities argue that maritime capabilities are crucial for safeguarding trade routes, responding to global maritime threats, and ensuring access to international waters via allied ports in Djibouti and Sudan.
Ethiopia's deal with Russia
Recall that in March 2025, Ethiopia signed a cooperation agreement with the Russian government to support naval development and training.
This deal follows the collapse of a previous naval partnership with France, which was initiated in 2018 after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced plans to revive the country's naval forces.
The Russo-Ethiopian partnership was forged during a high-level visit by Russian Deputy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Vladimir Vorobyev to Ethiopian naval facilities and a training center in Bishoftu, where he pledged Moscow's support for training personnel and enhancing Ethiopia's naval capabilities.
This development unfolds against the backdrop of growing Russian military engagement across Africa. Beyond Ethiopia, Moscow has been expanding its presence in countries like Mali, supplying heavy armored vehicles and reportedly building up military infrastructure.
Analysts see Ethiopia's renewed focus on naval power as part of a broader shift in its defense and foreign policy. While critics question the practicality of naval operations for a landlocked state, Ethiopian officials argue that a well-trained navy is vital for national security and regional stability.
Historically, Ethiopia maintained a naval force until 1993, with access to the Red Sea via Eritrea.
Since losing its coastline, the country has relied heavily on the Port of Djibouti for maritime trade. The current initiative signals an effort to rebuild long-lost capabilities and adapt to the evolving regional security landscape.