The first and largest indigenous attack drones and bombs in Nigeria and Africa have been unveiled by the Nigerian military in partnership with the communications company Briech UAS. On Wednesday, these bombs and attack drones were demonstrated and unveiled at Briech UAS's Abuja headquarters in collaboration with the Nigerian Army.
The Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, described the initiative as a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward self-reliance in defense technology and a significant step in strengthening national security capabilities. Mr Musa, an army general, emphasized that the development of combat drones was a timely intervention, highlighting their efficiency in intelligence gathering. In a time when security challenges are becoming increasingly complex and asymmetric, he stated that these drones would make it easier to take decisive actions against threats.
"These force multipliers will significantly improve our military's operational effectiveness." “Particularly in a world where global politics surrounding the procurement of advanced military hardware have become more intricate. When it comes to acquiring these essential platforms, nations that do not produce such solutions face bureaucratic roadblocks and diplomatic obstacles. We are directly confronted with such obstacles. Even if you have the money to buy them, you will be at the mercy of others if you don't produce what you need. “Nigeria strengthens its capacity to respond rapidly to security threats, reduces its dependence on foreign resources, ensures prompt acquisition, and produces these drones locally.
He stated, "We can create outstanding technology that competes globally with the brilliant minds we have, particularly among our youth." Caleb Mutwang, Governor of Plateau, emphasized that indigenous product recognition and patronage were essential to Nigeria's growth. According to Mr. Mutwang, the drones will play a crucial role in safeguarding national sovereignty throughout the Plateau and the nation.
He revealed that some of these locally developed technologies had already been brought to Plateau, boosting the effectiveness of ground forces significantly. He also mentioned that his state was working together with local bomb and drone manufacturers like Briech UAS to use domestically produced weapons to fight insurgency. “By allowing non-state actors to acquire capabilities that nearly rival those of state actors, we as a nation committed a mistake.
The implementation of these facilities in our state has been made possible by our partnership. “Indeed, it was an error to allow non-state actors to amass capabilities that almost overpower those of legitimate state forces. “It is time to rectify that imbalance. He stated, "We must ensure that no one within our borders possesses capabilities equal to or greater than those entrusted with the constitutional duty of protecting our national sovereignty.
" Bright Echefu, Chairman of Briech UAS, mentioned earlier that insurgent organizations like Boko Haram and ISWAP had recently begun using commercial drones for reconnaissance and attack purposes. Our troops have been tracked and attacked by these drones. He stated, "They are being used to coordinate ambushes and carry out crude aerial strikes."
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