NAF and Ethiopian Air Force Strengthen Defence Partnership, Consider Joint UAV Manufacturing
GLOBAL DEFENCE
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Ethiopian Air Force are taking significant steps to enhance their bilateral defence cooperation by exploring the possibility of joint Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) production. This strategic partnership reflects the growing defence and aerospace ambitions of both African nations, which have increasingly prioritized indigenous capabilities to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. A recent high-level meeting between senior military officials from both air forces discussed not only collaboration in UAV development but also the broader framework for technology sharing, joint training programs, and air power modernization.
The idea of joint UAV manufacturing aligns with the rising need for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and precision strike capabilities across Africa, especially as nations face cross-border terrorism, insurgencies, and asymmetric threats. Both Nigeria and Ethiopia have experience deploying drones in combat and reconnaissance roles, and pooling their technological expertise and operational knowledge can give them a strategic edge. While Nigeria has partnered with countries like China and Turkey for UAV acquisition in the past, a collaboration with Ethiopia offers an opportunity for regional innovation and home-grown manufacturing.
Beyond UAVs, the evolving partnership also includes plans for intensified joint military exercises, pilot exchange programs, and the establishment of a research and development task force. Such initiatives could serve as a catalyst for long-term cooperation in aviation technology, doctrine alignment, and combat readiness. Analysts believe that a successful UAV production venture could inspire similar partnerships between other African air forces, ultimately contributing to a stronger, more self-reliant continental defence industry.
This renewed cooperation between the NAF and Ethiopian Air Force signifies a shift in African defence diplomacy—from dependency to collaboration and capability-building. With regional security challenges continuing to evolve, such partnerships will be critical in addressing threats effectively while promoting innovation, cost-efficiency, and strategic independence. As both air forces move forward with feasibility studies and policy alignment, this joint UAV project could mark a turning point in Africa’s defence manufacturing landscape.
