Ethiopia is currently recognized as one of the countries that is heavily developing military technologies, particularly the production of drones. This country, facing serious security challenges and internal conflicts, is clearly trying to utilize this technology to strengthen its military capabilities. During the devastating civil war from ۲۰۲۰ to ۲۰۲۲, the Ethiopian Air Force was able to push back rebels from the northern Tigray region using Turkish drones.
Increase in Domestic Production Capacity
With the opening of the SkyWin Aeronautics Industries factory in Addis Ababa in March ۲۰۲۵, Ethiopia has begun producing its own military and civilian drones. According to local officials, this factory was designed and built by Ethiopian youth, and its goal has been stated as "preventing war" through "deterrence." However, the reality is that precise information about the production and technologies of these drones remains unclear, and access to this factory is prohibited for foreign media.
Military Advances and Human Threats
According to reports, Ethiopian government forces have conducted over ۱۰۰ airstrikes since the onset of the unrest in the Amhara region. These attacks, according to experts, were aimed at disrupting the planning and mobilization of rebel forces. However, these drones have also been accused of civilian casualties. This year, at least ۱۴ airstrikes have occurred in Tigray, with seven recorded in August alone.
The Ethiopian government has also purchased advanced drones from Turkey and China and is attempting to enhance its military power through mass production of these devices. Experts state that these drones can easily be repurposed to carry small bombs, raising further concerns about escalating tensions.
Given the current situation, it seems that Ethiopia is entering a new era of aerial warfare, an era that may have serious consequences for civilians and regional stability.
