Uganda’s defence sector is undergoing a significant transformation, with China playing a pivotal role in this modernization effort. This collaboration is not just about acquiring new equipment, but also about establishing a domestic capability for research, development, and production.
A Joint Venture for UAV Supremacy:
The cornerstone of this partnership is the establishment of a comprehensive UAV workshop in Nakasongola. This joint venture between Uganda’s Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs and China’s North Industries Corporation (Norinco) signifies a new era in Uganda’s military capabilities. The workshop will focus on the entire UAV lifecycle, encompassing assembly, testing, maintenance, and training. This comprehensive approach aims to make Uganda self-sufficient in the critical field of unmanned aerial vehicles.
Beyond UAVs: A Multifaceted Collaboration:
The groundbreaking ceremony for the UAV workshop marked a broader milestone. It also saw the inauguration of a Joint Research and Innovation Centre. This centre fosters collaboration between Ugandan and Chinese experts, fostering knowledge transfer and the development of indigenous defence technologies. Additionally, an ANFO explosives production line was established for Kyoga Dynamics, a joint venture between Uganda and China Wanbao Engineering Company. This demonstrates the multifaceted nature of the partnership, extending beyond just UAVs and encompassing various aspects of the defence industry.
Leadership’s Enthusiasm and Strategic Vision:
Both Ugandan and Chinese officials expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership. Minister Ssempjjja of Uganda acknowledged the importance of research and innovation in bolstering national defence, highlighting China’s willingness to share expertise. Norinco’s Executive President, Xiaoqing, emphasised the rapid six-month timeframe for the workshop’s completion, signifying a significant step forward for Uganda’s UAV industry. General Mbadi, Chief of the UPDF, lauded the partnership as a symbol of the strengthening ties between Uganda and China. This high-level endorsement underscores the strategic importance of this collaboration for Uganda’s defence modernization.
Building on Existing Achievements:
Uganda’s venture into the defence industry predates the partnership with China. The country has already made strides in developing its domestic capabilities. In 2018, the Armoured Vehicle Manufacturing and Assembly Facility in Maga Maga was launched, producing the Mamba-based Nyoka armoured personnel carrier. This project involved collaboration with South Africa’s Twiga Services and Logistics, showcasing Uganda’s openness to working with diverse partners. Furthermore, the UPDF commissioned the Chui infantry fighting vehicle in 2021, manufactured at the same facility, demonstrating a growing domestic production capacity.
Diversification of Partnerships and Expertise:
While China is a key partner, Uganda is not solely reliant on them. In July 2022, a new armoured vehicle factory in Nakasongola was opened in partnership with the UAE-based Streit Group. This NEC-Streit Uganda Ltd joint venture aims to cater to a wider market, including military, police, VIPs, and regional demands. Additionally, on the aviation front, Uganda commissioned a helicopter maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in January 2022, with the first locally overhauled Mi-24 helicopter unveiled in April 2023. This joint venture with Pro-Heli International, a Russian company, highlights Uganda’s strategic diversification of partnerships in the aviation sector.
The Role of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC):
The state-owned NEC plays a crucial role in Uganda’s defence industry development. Established in 1989, it serves as the commercial arm of the UPDF, engaging in various sectors. However, its ventures in agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and services all contribute to the overall economic strength that underpins a robust defence sector. NEC spearheads commercial ventures through subsidiaries and joint ventures like Kyoga Dynamics, NEC-Streit, and Pro-Heli, showcasing Uganda’s commitment to self-reliance and innovation in defence.
Acquisitions and Integration:
Uganda’s recent acquisitions of unmanned systems further bolster its military capabilities. In 2023, a Turkish STM Togan surveillance and reconnaissance drone was acquired. Additionally, the Ugandan military began fielding Israeli Elbit Systems Hermes 900 Kochav medium-altitude long-endurance drones in March 2022. In 2020, Uganda also procured the Aerosonde Mk4.7 unmanned aerial system from the US-based AAI Corp. This willingness to acquire diverse UAV technologies from various sources demonstrates Uganda’s strategic approach to integrating different systems into its growing arsenal.