Russia has expanded its military collaboration with Ethiopia by signing a new agreement focused on naval training and capacity building. The move signals Moscow’s growing influence in Africa’s security landscape while reinforcing Ethiopia’s ambitions to establish a modern naval force.

During a visit to Ethiopian naval facilities in Bishoftu, 45 km south of Addis Ababa, a Russian delegation led by Navy Deputy Commander Admiral Vladimir Vorobyev engaged in discussions with Ethiopian defense officials. 

The Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) confirmed that the talks centered on enhancing Ethiopia’s naval readiness through Russian support.

Commodore Jemal Tufisa, Ethiopian Navy Deputy Commander for Operations, emphasized the Russian Navy’s commitment to strengthening Ethiopia’s maritime capabilities and safeguarding its strategic interests. 

The agreement, co-signed by Admiral Vorobyev, formalizes collaboration in training, technical support, and institutional development.

Russia’s engagement with Ethiopia’s naval ambitions dates back to February 2022 when another Russian military delegation acknowledged Ethiopia’s efforts to modernize its navy. 

The latest agreement further cements Ethiopia’s strategic partnerships as it seeks to reestablish its naval force, decades after losing direct sea access following Eritrea’s independence in 1993.

Despite being landlocked, Ethiopia has been actively working to secure maritime access. In January 2024, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Somaliland to explore potential port access and a military base on the Red Sea, though concrete progress has yet to be reported. 

Meanwhile, Ethiopia continues to train naval personnel, with a cohort graduating in 2023 after completing specialized courses in navigation, engineering, and communications.