New Nigerian made drone can hold a rifle, says Military Chiefs

Made-in-Nigeria drone with rifle capability showcased at defence forum

Nigeria’s Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) has introduced a domestically engineered rifle-armed hexacopter drone, a new addition to Nigeria’s unmanned aerial systems, developed with approximately 70 per cent local components.

AFIT’s Director of Research and Development, Professor M. Alimony, presented the drone at the 4th African Air Forces Forum held in Lagos. He stated that the project reflects the institute’s drive to strengthen national defence capacity through locally sourced innovation.

According to Alimony, most of the drone’s parts—including hardware and software—were developed within Nigeria, with minimal reliance on imported materials. “Our goal is to ensure that this technology is not only produced in Nigeria but belongs to Nigeria,” he said during the presentation.

Designed for aerial surveillance and tactical engagement, the rifle-armed hexacopter is capable of reaching altitudes of up to 400 meters and operating within a 40-kilometre radius. It can fly for about 40 minutes per mission and carry payloads of up to five kilograms.

The hexacopter is equipped with integrated GPS, autopilot, communication, and imaging systems. Its configuration supports a wide range of operations, from intelligence gathering to limited combat engagements.

AFIT also showcased other defence-related projects at the forum, including an unmanned hexacopter prototype, a UAV shock absorber, a solar tracking device, and a rocket launcher circuit test system.

The hexacopter’s introduction comes amid Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, particularly in areas affected by insurgency. Alimony said the drone was developed in response to the country’s need for more efficient surveillance tools and greater autonomy in defence production.

“This is not just about building drones,” he noted. “It’s about developing the ecosystem and capacity for Nigeria to respond to its own security and technological needs.”

AFIT also displayed a smart mini spy vehicle for intelligence operations, a search and rescue device, and an unmanned ground vehicle, signalling the institution’s broader commitment to expanding military technology across air and land platforms.

The rifle-armed drone, however, remained the focal point of AFIT’s presentation. With its operational flexibility and local development, it underscores Nigeria’s strategic emphasis on self-reliance in the defence sector and the growing role of research institutions in national security planning.