Indigenous Defence Technology Heralds Nigerian Air Force 61st Anniversary
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reiterated its commitment to developing homegrown defence technologies, citing it as a crucial necessity in today’s complex global security landscape.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, made this declaration during the 2025 Inter-Command Research and Development Competition and Exhibition, held at the NAF Base in Asokoro, Abuja.
According to Air Marshal Abubakar, reliance on external sources for defence needs is no longer a viable option, as the security environment continues to evolve rapidly.
He emphasized that self-sufficiency in arms development and military technology has become a vital requirement for national security.
The NAF has made significant strides in transforming itself from a mere consumer of technology to a developer of innovative military solutions.
Notable achievements include the successful development of locally manufactured Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), rockets, and launchers, as well as the retrofitting of previously unserviceable rockets. Furthermore, the NAF has made substantial progress in software development and digital transformation, with the establishment of Artificial Intelligence laboratories and CNC machines at its Research and Development Institute.
To sustain innovation and research outputs, the NAF has created a Transformation and Innovation Branch, which provides strategic oversight across the service.
The event also witnessed the signing of revised partnership agreements between the NAF and Equipment Protection Application International Limited, as well as with Lagos State University (LASU). A joint research committee was also inaugurated, with the aim of driving the development of indigenous solutions to enhance national security and operational effectiveness.
The Inter-Command Research and Development Competition has become a premier platform for showcasing innovation and ingenuity across NAF units, with a focus on developing practical and scalable solutions to enhance national defence capabilities.
As the NAF celebrates its 61st anniversary, its commitment to indigenous defence technology is a testament to its dedication to safeguarding the nation’s security and interests.
