Nigerian Air Force Unveils Indigenous Technology Agenda At 2024 Research And Development Retreat

In a strategic move to bolster Nigeria’s self-reliance in defense technology, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) launched its 2024 Research and Development (R&D) Retreat on November 5, 2024, at its Headquarters in Abuja. The two-day event brings together leading experts and stakeholders with a mission to drive the operationalization of indigenous technologies and innovations for national defense.

Under the theme “Exploring Indigenous Technology and Innovation Towards Driving NAF Transformation,” the Retreat aligns with the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, to advance NAF’s capacity through cutting-edge research, strategic partnerships, and applied innovation. Emphasizing the role of R&D in reducing reliance on foreign technology, Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted NAF’s plan to induct 50 new aircraft by 2026, stressing that indigenous capabilities in aircraft manufacturing and maintenance will be key to sustaining this expansion.

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Strategic alliances were also underscored, with partnerships including Portugal’s UAVision and Serbia’s Zenith Prom for technology transfer initiatives. Among recent advancements, Air Marshal Abubakar mentioned the TSAIGUMI UAV project and the Nigerian Air Force Integrated Management System (NAFIMS), developed to streamline digital integration and decision-making. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support in transforming NAF into a resilient force capable of meeting Nigeria’s evolving airpower needs.

Air Vice Marshal Adeniyi Amesinlola, Chief of Transformation and Innovation, welcomed attendees, underscoring the significant strides NAF has made since its last R&D retreat in 2015. He detailed advancements in drone technology, weapon development, and component fabrication, and encouraged participants to contribute insights that would help move prototypes into operational deployment.

The Retreat also featured six R&D projects, showcasing innovations aimed at strengthening NAF’s operational capabilities. Industry experts provided feedback on these projects, assessing their potential for transitioning from prototypes to deployable assets. This interactive element fosters collaboration and feedback essential for pushing NAF’s indigenous technological initiatives forward.

With a vision for advancing national security through indigenous defense solutions, the 2024 NAF R&D Retreat is set to yield actionable recommendations that will reinforce the Nigerian Air Force’s role in Nigeria’s technological progress and defense autonomy.