The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) has taken a bold step forward in aerospace and defence engineering with the unveiling of its latest creation: a rifle-armed hexacopter drone designed to sharpen precision in combat operations. This development, announced by Professor M. Alimony, AFIT’s Director for Research and Development, took place at the 4th African Air Forces Forum in Lagos, Nigeria. It reflects AFIT’s ongoing mission to position itself as a world-class institution and the top choice for those pursuing studies in aerospace and defence technology. The new hexacopter stands apart from earlier bomb-armed versions, showcasing a fresh approach to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that could reshape Nigeria’s military capabilities.
Professor Alimony, while presenting the drone to attendees, emphasised AFIT’s goal of achieving at least 70 per cent local content in its construction. This ambition is about more than just engineering—it’s about ownership. By relying heavily on locally produced software and hardware, AFIT aims to claim the hexocopter as a fully Nigerian innovation. The drone itself, displayed at the forum, is a testament to this vision. It was fabricated entirely by AFIT, with only a handful of materials sourced from abroad, proving that the institute has the expertise and resources to build advanced technology in-house.
The hexacopter’s capabilities are tailored for aerial surveillance, a vital tool in modern warfare. It can climb to an altitude of 400 meters and cover a distance of 40 kilometres in just 40 minutes, offering a swift and far-reaching eye in the sky. Its name, “hexocopter,” comes from its six legs, a design that supports an array of sophisticated features. Equipped with a GPS system, an autopilot system, a communication system, and a camera system, the drone is built for precision and adaptability. It can also carry a payload of up to five kilograms, making it versatile enough for tasks ranging from reconnaissance to targeted operations.
This unveiling wasn’t a standalone event. AFIT used the forum to showcase its broader contributions to research and development, a role it has embraced as a leader in Nigeria’s defence sector for years. Alongside the rifle-armed hexocopter, the institute displayed several other aeronautical projects. Among them was a prototype unmanned hexocopter, distinct from the rifle-armed model, as well as an oleo-pneumatic shock absorber designed for UAVs to improve durability and performance. An automatic solar tracking system was also presented, hinting at AFIT’s exploration of sustainable energy solutions, while a rocket launcher circuit test box demonstrated practical applications for weaponry.
Beyond aerial innovations, AFIT revealed a range of technologies addressing diverse military needs. A Smart Mini Spy Vehicle (SMSV), engineered for clandestine espionage, caught attention for its potential in discreet intelligence gathering. A combat search and rescue device was introduced as well, offering a lifeline for operations in hostile environments. Rounding out the display was an unmanned ground vehicle, showing that AFIT’s expertise extends beyond the skies to ground-based solutions.
The rifle-armed hexocopter, however, remains the centrepiece of this effort, especially given Nigeria’s pressing security challenges. Insurgency and terrorism have long plagued the country, often in remote and hard-to-reach areas. The drone’s ability to conduct precise aerial surveillance could transform how intelligence is gathered, providing real-time data where traditional methods fall short. Its range and altitude make it ideal for monitoring vast terrains, while its locally driven development aligns with Nigeria’s push to reduce reliance on foreign technology.
Professor Alimony’s comments at the forum drove home this point. By prioritising local production, AFIT is not just building a drone—it’s building a foundation for self-reliance. This approach mirrors Nigeria’s larger aspirations to foster homegrown innovation in its defence sector, a move that could inspire other African nations facing similar threats. The hexacopter’s debut positions AFIT as a key contributor to the continent’s evolving defence landscape, offering a tool that could help maintain peace and stability in the region.
In the broader context, this development marks a turning point for Nigeria’s military technology. The hexacopter’s blend of advanced features and local ingenuity signals a future where the country can meet its security needs with solutions designed and built on its terms. As AFIT continues to refine its creations and expand its research, its influence is poised to grow, cementing its status as a premier hub for aerospace and defence engineering. The rifle-armed hexacopter is more than a drone—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when innovation meets determination.
