NAF Strengthens Defence Ties with Ethiopian Air Force, Explores Joint UAV Co-Production
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deepened its strategic military cooperation with the Ethiopian Air Force (FDRE AF) following a high-level visit to Ethiopia from 1–3 July 2025. The engagement marks a significant step toward advancing intra-African defence collaboration, with a key focus on aerospace technology, training, and the co-production of indigenous Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
The Nigerian delegation, led by the NAF Director of Training, Air Commodore Ali Hussaini Idris, visited major Ethiopian military institutions including the FDRE Air Force Headquarters, the Aviation Depot Maintenance Centre (ADMC), Dejen Aviation Engineering Industry (DAVI), and the Air Force Academy. The visit coincided with Ethiopia’s preparations to mark 90 years of military aviation, celebrating the country’s long-standing legacy in aerospace development.
During the visit, discussions centred on strengthening technical cooperation, particularly Ethiopia’s capabilities in overhauling L-39 jets and Mi-series helicopters. Both countries expressed mutual interest in expanding doctrinal exchange, joint pilot and technician training, collaborative aerospace research, and the co-development of a fully indigenous African UAV.
The Nigerian Air Force also extended invitations to Ethiopian commanders for advanced training at key Nigerian institutions, including the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre and the Air War College — initiatives designed to enhance interoperability and shared strategic thinking across the continent.
Speaking on the importance of the partnership, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, noted: “Such engagements underscore the NAF’s unwavering commitment to enhancing intra-African cooperation, fostering indigenous capabilities, and boosting operational effectiveness through strategic alliances.”
This renewed partnership reflects a broader continental aspiration to build African-led solutions in defence and aerospace through innovation, collaboration, and shared values.
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