Military Intercepts 3 Drone Strikes, as BH Upgrades Warfare.

By Achimi muktar.

In a chilling escalation of violence, suspected terrorists deployed fighter drones to bombard the 27 Task Force Brigade base in Buni Gari, Yobe State, on Wednesday evening, sources revealed to SaharaReporters. This marks a bold shift in the tactics of insurgents operating in Nigeria’s Northeast, sparking concerns about their growing technological capabilities.

The Yobe Attack

The attack, which began around 5 p.m., targeted soldiers stationed at the military base. However, vigilant troops swiftly intercepted the assault, shooting down three armed drones, a security source confirmed.

“It seems this is their latest strategy—the use of drones,” the source said. “Our men were alert. As soon as they heard the strange noise, they responded effectively and neutralized the threat.”

The attack comes just 48 hours after terrorists used drones to strike another military base in Borno State, injuring six soldiers and damaging military equipment.

A Pattern of Drone Warfare

On Monday afternoon, insurgents targeted the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State. A military signal obtained by SaharaReporters detailed how multiple armed drones, loaded with locally fabricated grenades, were deployed during the attack.

According to the signal:

The terrorists initially launched an assault using mortars and other firearms, which soldiers repelled.

Moments later, a secondary attack involving drones ensued, causing injuries to five soldiers and damaging a gun truck.

The signal noted, “The general security situation is calm but highly unpredictable. Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain satisfactory.”

A Troubling Evolution in Tactics

The use of drones by terrorists highlights a dangerous evolution in their operational capabilities. Traditionally reliant on guerrilla tactics and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), these groups are now leveraging technology to outmaneuver military forces.

Security analysts warn that this shift could complicate counterinsurgency efforts, as drones provide insurgents with the ability to launch precision attacks and gather intelligence from a distance.

14 Years of Insurgency

Nigeria has been battling insurgency in the Northeast for over a decade, with the Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) factions being the primary actors. Despite significant military efforts, the conflict has persisted, displacing millions and claiming countless lives.

The recent drone attacks serve as a stark reminder of the enduring threat posed by these groups and the urgent need for adaptive strategies to counter their evolving tactics.

As the military works to secure the region, questions about the origin of these drones and the insurgents’ access to such technology remain unanswered. For now, the soldiers’ vigilance and resilience continue to play a critical role in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty.