In a historic leap toward self-reliance in defense technology, the Federal Government, through the Chief of Defence Staff, has partnered with Briech UAS Limited to unveil the latest generation of locally manufactured unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This strategic development is set to revolutionize Nigeria’s national security landscape.
The unveiling ceremony showcased the first set of indigenous attack drones designed to enhance intelligence gathering and combat capabilities.
Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, hailed the milestone as a defining moment in the country’s quest for military self-sufficiency.
General Musa emphasized that these advanced UAVs would serve as force multipliers, significantly improving the operational effectiveness of Nigeria’s military.
“In an era of increasingly complex and asymmetric security threats, these drones will enable our forces to act faster, smarter, and more independently,” he stated. “Relying on foreign procurement limits our ability to respond swiftly. By manufacturing these drones locally, we ensure self-
sufficiency and reduce dependency on external suppliers.”
He further noted that global arms procurement is often hindered by bureaucratic and diplomatic challenges, making local production an urgent necessity.
“With the brilliant minds we have, particularly among our youth, we can create cutting-edge technology that competes on a global scale,” he added.
Briech UAS Limited, the firm behind the breakthrough, revealed that the drones—dubbed DAMISA ATTACK UAV, ARGINI UAV, and ARSENIO UAV—boast cutting-edge features such as:
Extended Endurance: Up to 14 hours of operational time for sustained surveillance and intelligence missions.
Superior Telemetry Range & Satellite Communication (SATCOM) Integration: Enabling enhanced coordination and real-time response.
Advanced Strike Capabilities & Counter-Drone Technology: Designed to neutralize threats efficiently.
Briech UAS Chairman, Bright Echefu, highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to strengthen its defense mechanisms, particularly given recent trends where insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP have started deploying commercial drones for reconnaissance and attacks.
“These drones will give our military a technological edge, ensuring that we stay ahead of evolving threats,” Echefu affirmed.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, emphasized the importance of investing in local defense manufacturing.
“We cannot achieve sustainable growth unless we recognize and support our own innovations,” Mutfwang said.
He confirmed that Plateau State had already deployed some of these UAVs in counterinsurgency operations, yielding significant improvements in security.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede emphasized that the only way to develop our nation is by supporting homegrown initiatives, just as Briech UAS has demonstrated.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with Briech UAS, expressing optimism that this partnership will enhance national security and contribute to economic growth.
With this launch, Nigeria joins a growing list of nations developing indigenous defense technology to safeguard national security. This strategic shift not only strengthens military capabilities but also fosters technological advancement and economic growth through local innovation.
As the country faces evolving security challenges, the deployment of these homegrown UAVs signals a new era of resilience and proactive defense strategy.
Briech UAS are a manufacturer of unmanned aerial vehicles for mission critical activities including commercial, security and defence related operations.
Briech UAS is committed to becoming a world-leading robotic aerial surveillance company.
