The Rise of Indigenous UAVs: Africa’s Drone Capabilities in Warfare and Surveillance

In recent years, Africa has emerged as a notable player in the development and deployment of indigenous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones. From pioneering efforts in the 1970s to modern breakthroughs in self-reliant military technology, African nations are increasingly leveraging drone capabilities to bolster security, enhance surveillance, and assert regional influence. This evolving landscape reflects a strategic shift toward local innovation, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and adapting to the continent’s unique security challenges.

Historical Context and Recent Developments

South Africa pioneered drone development starting in the 1970s, laying the groundwork for a robust indigenous UAV industry. Over time, other countries like Nigeria, Egypt, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Algeria have made significant progress, establishing local production facilities and unveiling their drone models.

Most notably, Nigeria, in collaboration with a communications firm, showcased its first and largest indigenous attack drones, marking a critical step toward military self-reliance. Nigeria’s Air Force Research and Development Center has developed various UAVs, including the Tsaigumi, a domestically produced drone designed for surveillance and combat roles. Nigeria now boasts approximately 20 locally-made drones, reflecting its growing industrial capacity and strategic focus on autonomous defence capabilities.

In South Africa, Denel—the continent’s largest drone manufacturer—has been at the forefront since the 1980s, refining drone technology through combat experience. In September 2023, South Africa achieved a milestone with the maiden flight of the Mikor 380, an Indigenous UAV with an 18.6-meter wingspan and a maximum takeoff weight of 1,300 kilograms, signalling advanced technological progress.

Regional Trends and Production

Across Africa, regional hubs have emerged. Southern Africa leads with 94 indigenous drone units across 12 models, followed by North Africa with 51 units, West Africa with 20, and East Africa with 15. South Africa’s Denel dominates as the largest manufacturer, while Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tunisia are making notable strides in indigenous drone research and production.

For example, Egypt has developed drones like the ASN-209 through collaborations with Chinese firms, and Algeria has produced the Amel series, including the Amel 300. Kenya reverse-engineered Israel’s Aerostar drone with Turkish assistance, unveiling its TAI model in 2021. Ethiopia’s WanderB drone and prototypes like the MALE UAV further exemplify the continent’s technical strides.

Egypt has developed drones like the ASN-209

African countries are deploying UAVs across a broad spectrum of applications:

• Military Use: Drones are instrumental for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and targeted strikes against insurgents and terrorists. Countries like Nigeria, Ethiopia, Algeria, and Morocco have expanded drone acquisitions, with Nigeria operating over 28 different drone types. Drones are vital in counter-insurgency, border security, and logistics support, often supplied by China, Israel, the US, and regional manufacturers.
• Civilian Use: Beyond defence, UAVs serve in agriculture (monitoring crops, applying pesticides), infrastructure development (mapping, construction monitoring), logistics (delivering supplies to remote areas), and search-and-rescue missions during disasters.

Driving Factors Behind Africa’s Drone Rise

Several factors underpin this burgeoning Indigenous drone industry:

• Reducing Reliance on Imports: Local production minimises dependence on foreign suppliers, ensuring quicker response times and greater strategic autonomy.
• Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility: Advances in drone technology have made UAVs more affordable, fostering widespread adoption across both military and civilian sectors.
• Security Threats: Rising insurgencies, terrorism, and border challenges necessitate enhanced surveillance and strike capabilities, prompting investment in indigenous solutions.
• Economic and Technological Growth: Developing drone industries stimulates local economies, creates jobs, and fosters technological innovation.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite promising progress, Africa’s Indigenous UAV sector faces significant hurdles:

• Technological Capabilities: Developing advanced UAVs requires substantial R&D investment, skilled engineers, and access to cutting-edge components.
• Funding and Political Support: Sustained financial backing and government commitment are essential for scaling production and maintaining a competitive edge.
• Regulatory Frameworks: Establishing clear policies for drone operation, safety, and oversight is vital to prevent misuse and ensure civil aviation standards.
• Counter-Drone Measures: As drone proliferation grows, so does the need for effective countermeasures—radar detection, electronic jamming, and physical interdiction—to prevent hostile or malicious use.
• Proliferation to Non-State Actors: Armed militant groups increasingly acquire and weaponise commercial or military-grade drones, complicating security landscapes. Groups in Mali, Burkina Faso, Somalia, and Sudan have employed drones for IED drops, reconnaissance, and strikes, often supplied by external actors or developed locally.

The Future of Africa’s Drone Capabilities

The rapid expansion of indigenous UAVs signifies a turning point in Africa’s military and civilian sectors. With around 35 drone models across seven countries—developed by over a dozen companies—the continent’s drone industry is poised for further growth.

The trend suggests an emerging arms race, as nations seek technological superiority. Countries like Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Algeria are leading this charge, investing in local production and advanced systems. The increasing use of drones by armed nonstate actors underscores the importance of developing counter-drone technologies and integrated security strategies.

In the broader context, Africa’s push toward self-reliant drone capabilities enhances its strategic autonomy, supports counter-insurgency efforts, and fosters technological innovation. As these industries mature, they can unlock economic opportunities and elevate Africa’s position in the global security landscape.

In conclusion, the rise of indigenous UAVs in Africa represents a significant shift toward technological independence and strategic resilience. While challenges remain, continued investment, innovation, and collaboration will enable African nations to harness drone technology effectively—transforming warfare, surveillance, and civilian applications for years to come.