Ethiopia has begun exploring its capacity to mass produce drones as it invests in manufacturing unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) for both civilian and military applications.
- Ethiopia is investing in manufacturing drones for civilian and military use, with plans for export
- The Prime Minister inaugurated Sky Wing Industry, a company producing unmanned aerial vehicles
- The locally manufactured drones are designed for high altitude, equipped with AI, and have counter-drone capabilities
The Prime Minister of the East African country, Abiy Ahmed (Dr.), recently revealed that the manufacture of UAV drones is intended not only for local use but also for export.
On Saturday, the prime minister inaugurated Sky Wing Industry, a company that produces unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) for both commercial and military uses.
“Today, as we inaugurate Sky Win Aeronautics Industries, we recognize that the locally manufactured drones before us were unimaginable just a few years ago,” the prime minister stated via X.
“Our ability to produce drones with diverse capabilities—designed and built by our own young professionals—is a significant milestone. To sustain this progress, we must invest in continuous research, expand our market reach, and strengthen local production of smart sensor technologies,” he added.
While the drones are also intended for international trade, their primary function is to strengthen the country’s sovereignty and defense capabilities.
As per the announcement, the drones in question are meant to function efficiently at high altitudes and are outfitted with counter-drone capabilities to combat any airborne threats.
Also, the locally manufactured drones use powerful artificial intelligence (AI) technology to improve their operating efficiency, as seen on AddisInsight.
The drones are designed to be adaptable instruments for a range of tactical objectives given that they may conduct offensive, defensive, surveillance, and intelligence collecting activities.
The Ethiopian leader further highlighted Ethiopia’s capacity to sell these drones to other markets.
“We are developing capabilities like these—along with the advancements at Homicho Ammunition Engineering Industry—not to fuel conflict, but to prevent it,” the Prime Minister relayed.
To improve Ethiopia’s standing in drone innovation and technology, he also urged further study and cooperation across the organizations involved.
