Burkina Faso has taken an important step towards improving its security, fight against terrorism and technological capabilities with the inauguration of a fresh drone pilot training centre. This pioneering establishment is set to revolutionize Africa’s capacity for drone technology, delivering specialized training to equip military personnel with the aptitudes needed to safeguard societies and protect natural resources. The installation of this training centre addresses Burkina Faso’s growing need for skilled drone operators. By developing local talent, the centre keeps various critical areas, including Border Security and Counter-Terrorism Efforts: Improving the ability to monitor and assure borders against threats.
This endeavour strengthens Burkina Faso’s position as an epicentre for innovation and security in West Africa, representing the continent’s commitment to self-sufficiency and safety. To further strengthen its security and counter-terrorism measures, Burkina Faso has recently obtained five Bayraktar TB2 drones from Turkey. These medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) drones are competent in performing intelligence, supervision, surveillance, and strike missions. With a capacity of 150 km and an endurance of 24 hours, the Bayraktar TB2 can carry up to four laser-guided missiles.
In a special operation last December, Burkinabe Bayraktar TB2s employed thermobaric-capped versions of the MAM-L precision-guided munition to destroy hundreds of terrorists from Ansaru and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) during a spell on the Djibo military base. The Burkina Faso Information Agency conveyed that more than 400 terrorists were killed during the counter-attack by the Burkinabe Armed Forces.
In addition to the Bayraktar TB2, Burkina Faso has also received the Akinci long-range combat drone. This cutting-edge UAV has a maximum launch weight of over 5.5 tons and can carry a load of over 1,350 kg. Fitted with two turboprop engines, electronic support and ECM systems, dual satellite communication systems, air-to-air radar, crash avoidance radar, and advanced synthetic-aperture radar, the Akinci UCAV is a formidable expansion to Burkina Faso’s arsenal.
The Akinci UCAV has been seen equipped with MAM-L and MAM-T munitions, and it is also consistent with ROKETSAN’s TEBER GPS and Laser-guided general-purpose bombs, as well as TÜBİTAK SAGE’s HGK GPS guidance tools. This suggests that Burkina Faso has acquired weightier munitions for the Akinci UCAV, further improving its military capabilities.
The commencement of the drone pilot training centre and the addition of advanced UAVs underscore Burkina Faso’s dedication to security and self-sufficiency. By funding homegrown expertise and cutting-edge technology, Burkina Faso is taking meaningful steps toward protecting its people, resources, and future. These efforts are anticipated to provide a strategic edge over Islamist militants who have been pushing unrest in the region, contributing to a more protected and stable West Africa.
