Nigeria targets local production of armoured vehicles, anti-drone systems

Nigeria is intensifying efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in military hardware production, aiming to break its long-standing dependence on foreign suppliers. The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON-D7G) is advancing plans to establish local manufacturing capabilities for armoured vehicles, anti-drone platforms, and other specialized defense equipment.

This ambitious initiative is being pursued in partnership with Eagles International for Defence Systems. The collaboration is expected to foster significant technology transfer, expand Nigeria's indigenous defense manufacturing capacity, and create thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities. It also aims to strengthen the country's strategic ability to address evolving security threats.

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The development was disclosed by DICON-D7G Chief Executive Officer Osman Chennar following an inspection tour of defense production facilities in Cairo. The Nigerian delegation, including the Minister of State for Defence, assessed various defense systems and platforms for potential local manufacturing. Chennar stated that the partnership would facilitate the transfer of advanced military technologies, enabling the production of a wide range of military platforms locally, with the long-term goal of exporting defense equipment to other African nations.

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Initial phases of the collaboration are projected to create employment for over 200 workers, including opportunities for approximately 100 retired military personnel. The targeted platforms for local production include the Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle BR6, Armoured Personnel Carrier cabins, 120mm manual mortar launcher cabins, and specialized medical evacuation and ambulance cabins. The proposed portfolio also features various armored vehicles like the MRAP Buffalo U.10 and M.12, the Rhino Guard GXR anti-drone and RPG-protected vehicle, and the BMP-2 Infantry Fighting Vehicle.

This move aligns with Nigeria's ongoing efforts to bolster its defense industry as it confronts persistent security challenges such as terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. The Nigerian Army's recent reception of locally manufactured armored vehicles signals a gradual transition from heavy reliance on foreign procurement to developing a domestic defense production chain.

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