A Dangerous Dimension: ISWAP Deploys Armed Drones in Attacks

On December 24, 2024, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) demonstrated a new and alarming level of sophistication in its operations. In a coordinated attack against the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wajiroko, located in Damboa Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State, ISWAP introduced armed drones as part of its assault tactics. This development marks a dangerous shift in the group’s capabilities, highlighting the adoption of advanced technology by non-state actors in the fight against counter-terrorism forces.

The attack unfolded in two phases. The initial strike commenced at approximately 1:00 p.m., with ISWAP militants using mortars and small arms to engage Nigerian troops stationed at the FOB. Despite the intensity of the attack, the troops demonstrated remarkable resilience, repelling the assault and forcing the attackers to retreat. However, the initial engagement turned out to be a precursor to a more technologically advanced assault.

Second Wave: The Rise of Drone Warfare by ISWAP

Barely 23 minutes after the first wave of the attack, ISWAP escalated its offensive with a second, more advanced assault. At around 1:23 p.m., multiple armed drones, equipped with locally fabricated grenades, were deployed against FOB Wajiroko. This marked the first known instance of ISWAP utilizing such technology in its operations, signaling a new phase in the group’s evolving combat strategies.

Telemetry and observations from the battlefield revealed the presence of at least four armed drones engaged in the operation. The deployment of these drones demonstrated ISWAP’s ability to adapt and leverage technology to gain a strategic advantage. The drones targeted key positions within the FOB, disrupting the troops’ defensive measures and amplifying the operational threat posed by the terrorist group.

Implications for Counter-Terrorism Efforts

The deployment of armed drones by ISWAP presents a significant challenge to counter-terrorism operations in Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad region. Drones offer terrorists an unprecedented advantage, including remote engagement, increased precision, and reduced risk of personnel loss. This technological leap not only enhances ISWAP’s offensive capabilities but also complicates the operational environment for security forces.

Military experts have emphasized the need for an urgent review of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategies to address this emerging threat. Enhanced anti-drone measures, advanced radar systems, and improved intelligence-gathering mechanisms are critical to countering this technological evolution. Failure to adapt swiftly could leave troops vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated attacks.

Social Media Erupts with Concerns Over ISWAP’s Sophistication

The deployment of armed drones by ISWAP has triggered widespread reactions across social media platforms. Many Nigerians expressed shock and concern over the insurgents’ ability to procure and deploy such advanced technology.

For instance, Twitter user @TheIrishAndShoePlug lamented, “The audacity of these guys isn’t funny. They have backings from really powerful people. God abeg.” Another user, @Khone, called for a strategic overhaul: “As the government refused to deploy drones and aircraft against the terrorists, the terrorists have now decided to attack our military with sophisticated drones.” Similarly, @Ivoh criticized the Nigerian military’s delay in adopting drone technology, noting that its earlier use could have mitigated issues like kidnapping and banditry.

Questions Raised About ISWAP’s Funding and Technology Access

The sophistication of ISWAP’s drone operations has raised critical questions about the group’s funding and access to advanced technology. Social media analyst @Gladiator pointed out, “Took a close look at the drone in the first frame. It looks like an Evo Max, and the price ranges from £400 to £9,000 depending on the upgrade. Leaves me with a lot of thoughts as to how members of ISWAP wield this kind of air resource. Something isn’t right somewhere.”

This sentiment echoes broader concerns about the sources of ISWAP’s resources and their potential international backers. The use of drones represents a shift in insurgent capabilities, indicating that ISWAP is not only well-funded but also technically adept, presenting a growing challenge for Nigeria’s security forces.

Calls for Military Innovation and Counter-Drone Measures

The use of armed drones by ISWAP has spurred calls for the Nigerian military to adopt counter-drone technology. Security expert Emmanuel Peter advised, “The insurgents are exposing their electronic and transmitting locations. The next step for the military and the NSA is the introduction of drone frequency jammers.” Similarly, Muhammad X, another commentator, urged the government to procure anti-drone systems for the military, police, and DSS, emphasizing the urgent need for modernized security strategies.

As the insurgency takes on a technological dimension, experts warn that Nigeria’s defense forces must prioritize innovation. Drone frequency jammers, surveillance systems, and anti-drone technology are now essential to counter this evolving threat. Without these measures, the insurgency could gain an upper hand, further destabilizing the region.

The deployment of armed drones by ISWAP represents a dangerous turning point in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. It underscores the need for urgent upgrades in military technology and strategic planning. While Nigerian troops demonstrated resilience in the December 24 attack, the country must swiftly adapt to the new realities of modern warfare to safeguard its territorial integrity and protect its citizens.