The United States is deepening its military partnership with Nigeria by providing training on unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to Nigerian forces, taking advanced drone capabilities to Africa’s third-strongest military as Washington expands its security engagement across the continent.
The latest training took place at Operating Location Bauchi, where US and Nigerian forces are conducting a series of activities designed to share military expertise, strengthen Nigeria's capabilities and improve interoperability between the two countries' forces.
According to the US Africa Command (AFRICOM), one area that generated particular interest was unmanned aircraft systems, with US Army personnel training members of the Nigerian Air Force Special Forces Regiment on their operation and use.
The UAS training was led by US Army Sgt. Mark Murphy, an intelligence analyst assigned to the 13th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion. Murphy trained approximately 10 members of the Nigerian Air Force Special Forces Regiment during a session that began with about 45 minutes of instruction before moving into hands-on training.
Murphy introduced the Nigerian personnel to the system, explained its operation and discussed techniques US personnel have used while employing UAS at Bauchi. After learning the basic controls, the Nigerian personnel were able to operate the aircraft themselves.
