On December 13, 2024, STM announced that the TOGAN tactical multi-rotor reconnaissance drone, developed by Türkiye’s defense industry, has officially entered service in two African countries, including Nigeria. Designed for surveillance and reconnaissance operations, the TOGAN has been delivered to the respective armed forces and is already conducting operational missions. This development marks a major milestone for STM’s export strategy, as the company is actively engaging with other African nations, with several negotiations reportedly nearing conclusion.
STM TOGAN tactical multi-rotor reconnaissance drone (Picture source: STM)
The TOGAN tactical multi-rotor drone, developed by STM (Savunma Teknolojileri Mühendislik ve Ticaret A.Ş), embodies Türkiye’s commitment to technological autonomy and its goal of addressing increasing surveillance and reconnaissance demands. The project was initiated in 2015 as part of a national program to enhance the tactical drone capabilities of the Turkish Armed Forces. Developed entirely with the company’s internal resources, TOGAN reflects STM’s independent funding strategy and technical expertise.
In Nigeria, TOGAN plays a critical role in border security efforts and the fight against asymmetric threats such as armed groups and cross-border criminal activities. Its advanced surveillance capabilities, including infrared and electro-optical cameras, enable effective monitoring of large areas, even under challenging or nighttime conditions. By providing real-time intelligence, TOGAN supports Nigeria’s security forces in early detection of suspicious movements and facilitates swift responses. Compact and easily deployable, TOGAN is particularly well-suited for Nigeria’s diverse terrains, where it enhances internal security and protects critical infrastructure.
TOGAN’s development began in 2015 as part of a Turkish initiative to strengthen its tactical drone capabilities. In 2017, it was unveiled publicly at the International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul, garnering attention for its advanced features and modern design. Between 2018 and 2021, TOGAN underwent multiple phases of testing and enhancement, integrating high-tech technologies in navigation, sensors, and data analysis. These upgrades resulted in a robust and high-performing system. In 2022, after rigorous testing, TOGAN officially entered the Turkish Armed Forces’ inventory, becoming a strategic asset for reconnaissance and surveillance missions.
In 2023, STM marked a milestone by exporting TOGAN to African countries, including Nigeria and Uganda. These deliveries represented the beginning of a new chapter for TOGAN, strengthening its international reputation and affirming its relevance in a growing market. This journey highlights STM’s ambitious vision to develop reliable, high-performing, and competitive drones that meet both domestic and international requirements.
TOGAN stands out for its advanced technical capabilities tailored to surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Compact and versatile, it offers a flight endurance of up to 30 minutes and an operational range of 10 kilometers. Equipped with a high-definition electro-optical camera and an infrared sensor, it ensures effective day-and-night surveillance with precise resolution. Weighing approximately 7 kilograms, TOGAN is easily transportable and deployable in the field. Its autonomous navigation system, enhanced by artificial intelligence, delivers high accuracy in target tracking and real-time intelligence gathering, making it a strategic asset for complex military operations.
Military ties between Türkiye and Nigeria have grown significantly in recent years, marked by the supply of Turkish military equipment to Nigeria. In February 2023, Nigeria received two T129 ATAK attack helicopters, followed by two additional units in September, part of a six-aircraft deal with Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). These helicopters are intended to bolster the Nigerian Air Force’s counterterrorism and anti-banditry efforts. In addition, other agreements signed in October 2021, including those in the defense sector, demonstrate the mutual commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s military capabilities through Turkish expertise and technology.
TOGAN has been exported to multiple African nations in recent years, showcasing Türkiye’s growing presence in the continent’s drone market. In 2023, Nigeria acquired TOGAN to strengthen border surveillance, followed by Uganda the same year, marking a significant milestone for STM’s expansion in Africa. Other Turkish drones, such as the Bayraktar TB2, have also gained popularity. In 2021, Niger procured these drones for counterinsurgency operations, while Togo and Burkina Faso followed suit in 2022. Mali, facing severe security challenges, integrated Bayraktar TB2 drones into its arsenal in 2023. These sales highlight the increasing demand for Turkish drones in Africa, addressing critical security needs and strengthening military ties between Turkey and African nations.
Nigeria, West Africa’s leading military power, faces multiple security challenges, including threats from the Islamic State West Africa Province, Boko Haram, and militants in the Delta region. The Nigerian government has launched military reforms to address operational weaknesses identified during counterinsurgency campaigns. These reforms focus on improving counterinsurgency tactics, enhancing forward-operating bases, and creating rapid reaction forces. A key player in the Multinational Joint Task Force and the ECOWAS Standby Force, Nigeria has also sought to expand its international partnerships. Alongside collaborations with Pakistan, Germany, the UK, and the US, Nigeria has deepened its defense ties with Turkey, acquiring equipment such as TOGAN drones and T129 ATAK helicopters.
To further enhance its capabilities, the Nigerian Air Force has established dedicated Air and Ground Training Commands, supported by external contractors for training and maintenance. The government has also prioritized modernizing its arsenal, including ground-attack aircraft, new tanks, howitzers, and upgraded naval assets to secure the Delta region. Nigeria is investing in its defense industry with local production facilities for small arms and armored patrol vehicles, enhancing its strategic autonomy and regional influence.
