Lost your password? Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.Lost your password? Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.Nigeria, Algeria and Ethiopia are listed as the most viable markets for domestic drone industries, based on the number and types of drones purchased annually.
“The unmanned aerial vehicles have been developed across seven African countries by thirteen different companies, showcasing the continent’s growing expertise and innovation in this field,” said Military Africa in the 2024 procurement data report. Regionally, Southern Africa leads in locally-produced drones, producing 94 units across 12 models. North Africa follows with 51 units across 14 models, West Africa has produced 20 units and East Africa 15.“. Refined by combat experience, the drone industry blossomed in the 80s,” according to the report.
While North African countries like Egypt are heavily dependent on military drone imports, there are several locally-built or assembled units. These include the EJune-30SW model, which was produced by Egypt’s Ministry of Military, using complex robotics, which Military Africa says could probably be a result of technology transfer from the United Arab Emirates to the North African country.
“North African countries are not only enthusiastic importers of weapons, they are also increasingly aiming to create indigenous defence capabilities,” says the report. Drones have been used for a variety of purposes in Africa, from combating terrorism to monitoring illegal activities like poaching and smuggling to delivering medical supplies to remote areas. There is an increased focus now on military drones, however.