American defense technology firm Textron Systems has announced a significant agreement with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited to supply advanced surveillance drones aimed at protecting critical oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta.
The contract includes the delivery of three Aerosonde Mk 4.7 Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), specifically designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. Tantita, owned by ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, has been engaged by the Federal Government to combat issues of pipeline vandalism and oil theft.
The Aerosonde Mk 4.7 drones offer long endurance and can operate in confined areas without requiring traditional runways, making them ideal for monitoring the challenging terrains of Nigeria’s waterways and swamps.
Industry experts anticipate that the deployment of these drones will significantly bolster Tantita’s surveillance capabilities, enabling comprehensive monitoring of oil infrastructure amidst ongoing challenges in the region. Capable of extended flight times, these drones will relay real-time imagery and data to control stations on the ground.
The announcement has elicited mixed reactions across Nigeria. Supporters view the move as a proactive step towards enhancing the security of national oil assets and reducing crude oil theft. Conversely, critics express concerns regarding the increased sophistication of equipment in the hands of private security contractors, calling for stringent regulations and oversight to prevent potential misuse of military-grade technology.
Since its engagement by the Federal Government, Tantita Security Services has reportedly contributed to marked improvements in crude oil production levels, attributed to enhanced monitoring and protection of critical infrastructure.
