Breaking News
Niger Orders Several Drones from Türkiye Amid Tensions in Region.
According to Africa Intelligence, Niger has finalized an agreement worth approximately 80 million euros (about $87.56 million) to acquire five Karayel-SU Turkish unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This purchase underscores Niger’s commitment to modernizing its military and enhancing its defense capabilities in response to rising regional security concerns.
The Karayel-SU drone, selected by Niger, is a tactical UAV designed for reconnaissance and surveillance missions. (Picture source: Lentatek)
The Karayel-SU drone, selected by Niger, is a tactical UAV designed for reconnaissance and surveillance missions in line with NATO’s stringent STANAG-4671 standard for safe operation within civil airspace. This drone features an advanced triple-redundant avionics system that enhances safety by minimizing the risk of uncontrolled failures, a level of reliability inspired by manned aviation standards.
Built with a composite structure that includes aluminum mesh for lightning protection, the Karayel is equipped with an automatic de-icing system, enabling it to operate effectively in harsh weather conditions. The drone can carry up to 70 kg of primary payload and 120 kg under its wings, supporting various equipment configurations. It offers 20 hours of flight endurance, reaching altitudes up to 22,500 feet.
Operational control can extend up to 200 km via line-of-sight or, for longer distances, by satellite (SATCOM). Its camera system identifies targets, and its laser designators guide precision munitions. Additionally, the Karayel’s automated takeoff, flight, and landing capabilities reduce dependency on manual operation, ensuring greater efficiency during critical flight phases.
The selected drones are reportedly produced by the Turkish defense company Lentatek, renowned for manufacturing versatile military drones capable of performing both reconnaissance missions and combat operations. This acquisition highlights the growing popularity of Turkish drones in Africa, especially the Bayraktar TB2 and other advanced systems from Turkey’s expanding defense sector. Turkish drones have earned a solid reputation in global markets for their operational reliability and versatility, making them a strategic choice for numerous African nations seeking effective, cost-efficient defense solutions compared to other competitors.
This recent procurement is part of Niger’s broader defense acquisition strategy, which has included other Turkish systems over recent years. Niger previously ordered the Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) and the Hurkus light attack aircraft, produced by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). In 2022, TAI confirmed an order of two Hurkus aircraft for Niger, with deliveries expected by the end of that year. These ongoing acquisitions demonstrate Niger’s sustained interest in leveraging Turkish defense technology for both surveillance and operational needs.
Turkey’s influence in Africa’s defense sectors has grown substantially, with partnerships multiplying across several countries, including Libya, Somalia, and Nigeria. International relations expert Orhan Karaoglu notes that Turkey’s strategic engagement across the continent not only strengthens its security footprint but also supports counterterrorism efforts in countries such as Niger, Nigeria, and Mauritania. This regional involvement aligns with Turkey’s broader geopolitical objectives, providing its African partners with advanced defense solutions while solidifying Turkey’s role as a key defense exporter to the continent.
Beyond military cooperation, Turkey and Niger are actively expanding their bilateral relations across various sectors, particularly energy and mining. Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar recently highlighted that a Turkish state-owned company has been engaged in gold mining in Niger since 2020 and that plans are in place for increased collaboration in the mining and petroleum sectors.
This latest drone acquisition represents a continuous strengthening of Niger’s defense capabilities and illustrates Turkey’s growing presence in the African defense industry, positioning it as a key player in addressing the continent’s evolving security needs. Turkey has a competitive edge in offering high-quality equipment at a lower cost, attracting countries that seek to bolster their defense without straining their budgets.