Army Enhances Capabilities: Acquisition of 43 Drones and Training of 46 Personnel in Turkey

Army Expands Drone Fleet with 43 New Units and 46 Turkey-trained Personnel

The Federal Government has enhanced the Nigerian Army’s operational capabilities by acquiring 43 Bayraktar TB2 drones, primarily for deployment in the North-West region to combat insurgency and other security challenges.

Between May and September 2022, 35 officers and 11 soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s unmanned aerial systems regiments underwent specialized training in Turkey on the operation and maintenance of these drones. The training encompassed multi-piloted aircraft pilots, mission operators, and avionics and mechanical engineers and technicians.

During a recent winging ceremony in Abuja, 22 of the trained personnel were officially recognized, while the remaining individuals are currently engaged in active operational duties.

This initiative, known as Project Guardian, aims to bolster military operations against insurgency and other security threats in the region.

The Bayraktar TB2 is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned combat aerial vehicle capable of remotely controlled or autonomous flight operations. It is manufactured by the Turkish company Baykar and is primarily used for reconnaissance and surveillance.

The Nigerian Army’s acquisition of these drones signifies a significant advancement in its technological capabilities, aligning with global trends in modern warfare that emphasize the importance of unmanned systems for intelligence gathering and precision strikes.

This development is expected to enhance the effectiveness of military operations in the North-West, contributing to improved security and stability in the region.