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.
“They were really excited with being able to get hands-on time with it,” Murphy said. “They were excited about doing more training with it in the future.”
The training also covered how information collected by UAS can be incorporated into military operations.
“I love training Soldiers,” Murphy said, describing training as one of the main responsibilities of the Army's noncommissioned officer corps.
Other training conducted between the two forces has included combat lifesaver and tactical combat casualty care, weapons familiarisation, camouflage, water treatment and testing, explosive ordnance disposal and small-unit tactics.
The relationship has also extended beyond formal military activities, with US and Nigerian personnel participating in basketball and volleyball when weather and operational commitments allow. AFRICOM said additional training opportunities are being developed at Bauchi.
Nigeria joins wider US military engagement across Africa
This training is part of a broader security cooperation program, which also covers combat care, weapons familiarization, camouflage, and explosive ordnance disposal. (image: Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Serrano)
This training is part of a broader security cooperation program, which also covers combat care, weapons familiarization, camouflage, and explosive ordnance disposal. (image: Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Serrano)
The expanding cooperation with Nigeria comes as the US military continues to deepen specialised partnerships with several African countries.
Culled from Business Insider
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