Abuja, Nigeria – In a significant display of technological prowess, Nigeria’s indigenous defence company, Equipment Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL), recently unveiled cutting-edge military equipment at the Africa Airforce Forum. The event, which took place in Abuja from May 23 to 25, 2024, showcased EPAIL’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
At the heart of EPAIL’s exhibit was the Automatic Weapons Station (AWS), a modular turret designed for tactical vehicles. According to Epail,’s Administrative Director AVM Abdulganiyu Olabisi (rtd), the AWS allows operators to swiftly switch between different types of weapons based on mission requirements. Whether mounted on a guard post or a tactical vehicle, its adaptability ensures flexibility on the battlefield. With a 360-degree traverse capability, the AWS provides comprehensive coverage, enhancing situational awareness and response effectiveness. Equipped with both infrared and visual cameras, the AWS offers a range of up to 2 kilometers, ensuring reliable target acquisition and tracking. Operators control the AWS through a joystick-equipped control unit inside the vehicle.
The introduction of the AWS promises to significantly enhance the firepower of the Nigerian military’s tactical vehicles, reinforcing their operational capabilities.
In addition to the AWS, EPAIL showcased a range of drones designed for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and strike purposes. The bomber drone, capable of carrying twelve 82mm mortar shells, grenades, or tear gas canisters, boasts a range of up to 12 kilometers and operates at an altitude of 2.5 kilometers and above. Its day and night infrared camera enables nighttime operations. The kamikaze FPV drone, with a top speed of 140 kilometers per hour, is armed with a 3kg payload, suitable for engaging moving targets.
EPAIL also displayed a domestically manufactured light armoured vehicle, reverse-engineered from the Chinese Dong Feng CSK-131 Mengshi armoured vehicle. This vehicle features a remotely operated weapons system mounted on the hull, bolstering the Nigerian Army’s operational readiness. This April, Epail announced the commencement of serial production of the reverse-engineered Chinese Dong Feng CSK-131 Mengshi armoured vehicle.
The move underscores Nigeria’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign military equipment, emphasizing self-reliance and technological advancement in the field of defence.
The Nigerian army is currently facing a number of security challenges, including the Boko Haram insurgency and the farmer-herder conflict. The localized Dongfeng CSK131 and other locally produced armoured vehicles will be an important asset in the fight against these challenges. The production of the localized Dongfeng CSK131 is a step in the right direction for the Nigerian defence industry. It is a sign that Nigeria is committed to developing its own military capabilities and reducing its reliance on imported weapons.