Against the backdrop of Egypt’s boosted international standing, having hosted the recent Middle East peace talks in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has been pressing forward with five main changes. These reforms have strengthened the Egyptian military in recent years.
First, Sisi has overseen a massive reinforcement of the Egyptian Armored Corps, reflected in a five-billion-dollar deal with the United States. This reinforcement has seen the improvement of existing tanks and the upgrading of the rest of the ground forces, including the purchase of missiles and guided ammunition.
Second, the president has led a significant buildup of forces in the Sinai Peninsula. While this is ostensibly to fight terrorism, some claim that the military buildup in the region exceeds the military annex in the peace agreement.
This mainly involves deploying tanks and troops and building infrastructure such as roads, bunkers, bases, airfields, and developing existing airports.
Building up Egyptian military assets
Diversifying procurement sources and increasing the number of suppliers so as not to be dependent on a single country that could impose an embargo on it in a situation of political tension.
Next, Egypt has built a naval force in the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Although in recent years there has been a decline compared to the end of the previous decade, the Egyptian government continues to purchase aircraft and submarines, and to absorb corvettes into its ranks.
Fifth, by establishing light infantry divisions, the Egyptian military is theoretically in a better position to handle emergency situations and continue to control the economy and local politics.
The military buildup has come as Sisi has been working to boost his nation’s position as an influential factor in the Middle East.
Sisi’s efforts have placed Egypt in a jumping-off position to integrate into the "day after" in the Gaza Strip.