Zimbabwe's detractors must never be fooled to assume that the Zimbabwe National Army is weak because of the illegal sanctions imposed on the country, a senior officer has said.

 In an interview after officiating at the handover and takeover of 1 Field Artillery Regiment in Harare yesterday, Artillery Brigade Commander Brigadier General Morgan Munawa said the force is now more lethal than ever.

"Gunners, as we are affectionately called, are more than ready to thwart any form of aggression on our country. We are in the best position to give the best firepower whenever necessary.

"Sanctions are affecting us like all Government departments but in our case they have proved useful. As Artillery Brigade we are now highly placed to defend Zimbabwe."

He said soldiers were undergoing training in various friendly countries to operate technologically advanced weapons acquired.

Brig Gen Munawa said the ZNA was one of the best armies in Africa and beyond.