The Impact of Egyptian Military Expansion on Regional Balances in North Africa

Abstract

This study examines the impact of Egypt’s military expansion on regional balances in North Africa by analyzing its underlying drivers, major manifestations, and implications for the regional security environment. The study is based on the assumption that Egypt’s military expansion after 2013 was not merely a process of modernizing its armed forces, but rather a strategic response to the evolving regional security environment, particularly the Libyan crisis, the rise of transnational threats, and the intensifying regional and international competition in North Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean. The study adopts the analytical approach as its primary methodology, supported by the descriptive approach and the Balance of Power framework to assess the dimensions of Egypt’s military expansion and its impact on regional power dynamics. The findings indicate that Egypt has strengthened its position as a significant regional power through the modernization of its military capabilities, the diversification of its arms procurement, and the expansion of its strategic military presence. These measures have enhanced Egypt’s deterrence capabilities, safeguarded its vital national interests, and increased its influence over regional security dynamics in North Africa. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of this role remains closely linked to a range of political, economic, and regional variables.