The Nigerian military has unveiled Africa’s “first and largest” attack drone, marking a major milestone in the continent’s ability to develop advanced defense technologies.
Developed in collaboration with Nigerian tech firm Briech UAS, the drone was recently showcased at the company’s headquarters in Abuja.
Though technical specifications were not disclosed, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa emphasized that the drone will serve as a force multiplier, significantly enhancing the Nigerian military’s operational effectiveness.
He added that this achievement validates the country’s ability to create “something that will be very, very outstanding anywhere in the world.”
Drone technology at its finest! Briech UAS is shaping the future of aerial surveillance. Witness live drone testing at the event and experience our groundbreaking UAVs!  #BriechUAS pic.twitter.com/9hHAiVy8QR
— Gold-on X (@_GoldonX) April 2, 2025
The kamikaze drone is expected to complement Nigeria’s existing surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, playing a critical role in counter-insurgency operations.
Reducing Foreign Dependence
Kamikaze drones are explosive-laden unmanned aerial vehicles designed to strike targets by crashing into them.
Built for one-way missions, they are intended to deliver maximum destruction with a single, impactful strike.
Musa underscored the strategic importance of producing such a weapon domestically, pointing out that reliance on foreign suppliers often leads to “bureaucratic bottlenecks” that delay access to critical equipment.
“We know what it means if you don’t produce what you need, you’ll be held whenever you need them, even with your money at hand,” he stressed.
By manufacturing these drones locally, Musa added, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on foreign sources, ensuring quicker acquisition and a more rapid response to emerging threats.
Nigeria has long relied on foreign-made drones, such as the Chinese Wing Loong II and the US Aerosonde drones, to bolster its fleet.
