By Victor Akaa
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has achieved unprecedented milestones in indigenous military manufacturing, significantly bolstering national security and self-reliance under Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar’s visionary leadership.
According to Group Captain Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director Public Relations and Information, NAF, this remarkable progress was highlighted at the Defence and Services Transformation and Innovation Branches of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) Seminar held in Abuja.
Speaking at the seminar, Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the imperative of innovation in tackling evolving security challenges. He noted that NAF is committed to developing cutting-edge technologies and modernizing operational processes to ensure the Nigerian military remains agile and capable in modern warfare.
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted some notable achievements under his leadership, including the 57mm Rocket Technology, where NAF is finalizing a technology transfer agreement with Messrs Zenith Prom of Serbia to acquire advanced rocket systems, significantly enhancing Nigeria’s armament capabilities. This partnership will enable the local production of 57mm rockets, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Another notable achievement is the Tsaigumi Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), which NAF is collaborating with UA Vision of Portugal to operationalize, boosting surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. The Tsaigumi UAV will provide real-time intelligence, enhancing NAF’s ability to respond to security threats.
Other notable projects include the ultra-sonic Solar Bird Scare Cannon Device, designed to protect vital installations from bird strikes, reducing the risk of accidents and damage to aircraft; Rapid Response Operation Geo-Coordination Device to enhance field communication and coordination; Tactical Mobile Combat Smart Helmet to provide enhanced situational awareness for pilots; and local production of General-Purpose Machine-Gun Ammunition Links and 250kg Bomb Impact Fuses to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
In his remarks, Air Vice Marshal Adeniyi Amesinlola, Chief of Transformation and Innovation, reaffirmed NAF’s dedication to advancing the Chief of Air Staff’s command philosophy. He emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of innovation across all levels of the Air Force, ensuring alignment with NAF’s strategic objectives and contributing to national security.
The seminar featured expert insights from Dr. Abdul-Hakeem Ajijola on “Emerging Technologies in Warfare” and brainstorming sessions on transforming the AFN to meet current challenges. This collaborative approach underscores NAF’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging security threats.
With these groundbreaking initiatives, the Nigerian Air Force is poised to revolutionize national security and cement its position as a leader in indigenous military manufacturing, protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensuring regional stability.
