The Federal Government, through the Chief of Defence Staff, has announced its partnership with Briech Group, UAS Limited to unveil the latest advancements in Locally Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology, aimed at enhancing national security and promoting the well-being of Nigeria.
The unveiling, which was held in Abuja on Wednesday, marked a significant milestone in the Company’s journey to strengthen the Country’s security apparatus.
Speaking at the unveiling and live demonstration of the first set of locally-manufactured attack drones by Breach Unmanned Aerial Systems Limited in Abuja, Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and Chairman of the event, said the event was a landmark in Nigeria’s journey towards self-reliance in defence technology and a significant step in strengthening national security capabilities.
He said, “As the precision and efficiency of drones are critical in gathering intelligence and executive decisive actions against
threats, in an era where security threats are increasingly complex and asymmetric, these force multipliers will play a vital role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of our military and other areas.
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“By manufacturing these drones locally, Nigeria reduces its dependence on foreign resources, ensures prompt acquisition, and strengthens its ability to respond swiftly to security threats.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria welcomes this development as it enhances our ability to acquire the much-needed assets without delays associated with the international procurement system. For us, this will significantly improve our professional readiness while ensuring long-term sustainability.”
Launching the drones into the nation’s Armed Forces and Nigeria Security architectures, the Chief of Defence Staff, said the drones would also be valuable assets of providing air cover in support of ground and maritime operations, enabling troops to maneuver with enhanced institutional awareness and combat effectiveness.
“Our troops will be very happy to know that these are made in Nigerian drones and they’re using them for our own operations. And not only them, I know the police, the DSS, the civil defense, and everyone loving Nigeria will be happy to see that Nigeria is also putting its name on the map of those countries that are producing drones”, he said.
The CDS stressed the need for vigilance in safeguarding the critical assets, saying, “You must ensure that your operations remain secure from infiltration by elements that could turn these technologies against Nigerian State.”
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Bright Echefu, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Briech Group, said the new technology aims to address emerging threats.
“The development comes in response to growing concerns over insurgent groups, such as Boko Haram, adapting commercial drones for reconnaissance and attack missions noting that such groups have exploited drone technology to track troop movements, coordinate ambushes, and execute aerial strikes, posing a significant threat to national security”, he noted.
Some key features of the technology, he said, include Extended Endurance, The DAMISA ATTACK UAV, ARGINI UAV, and ARSENIO UAV Operate for 14 hours, ensuring sustained aerial coverage and prolonged ISR missions.
Superior Telemetry Range, Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Integration, Enhanced Strike Capabilities and Advanced Counter-Drone Technology.
